a local biodiversity action plan for hook...

A LOCAL BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN

FOR

HOOK PARISH

July 2004

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust

Company limited by guarantee and registered in England, no. 676313. Registered charity no. 201081.

Protecting wildlife for the future

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Work is already on-going in Hook Parish to protect its biodiversity. Therefore

recognition must go to the following organisations for their support.

British Dragonfly Society

British Trust for Conservation Volunteers

Butterfly Conservation Trust

Country Watch

DEFRA

English Nature

Environment Agency

Forest Enterprise

Game Conservancy Trust

Hampshire Amphibian and Reptile Group

Hampshire Bat Group

Hampshire Biodiversity Information Centre

Hampshire Biodiversity Partnership

Hampshire County Council

Hampshire Mammal Group

Hampshire Museums Service

Hampshire Ornithological Society


Hart District Council

Hook Parish Council

The Botanical Society of the British Isles

Whitewater Valley Preservation Society

Continued support and collaboration will be required to ensure that the actions of this

plan are implemented. Contact between organisations and individuals on the progress of

this plan will be made possible through the Forest of Eversley Project and the

Hampshire Biodiversity Partnership.

Particular recognition must go to Hook Parish Council who have funded Hampshire and

Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust to produce this plan. They have recognised the wealth of

biodiversity in their parish, and the need to produce a Local Biodiversity Action Plan to

ensure its continued survival.

Data have been analysed for the purposes of this project, but they remain the copyright

of the data providers. Maps within the strategy have been produced by Naomi Ewald

and remain copyright of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.

Written by: Naomi Ewald, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.

Published by: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Beechcroft House, Vicarage

Lane, Curdridge, Hampshire, SO32 2DP. Company limited by guarantee and registered

in England, no. 676313. Registered charity no. 201081.

HOOK PARISH LOCAL BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN

1

SUMMARY

Biodiversity has become integrated into the UK’s vocabulary. All sectors of society

including National and Local Government, statutory agencies, non-government

organisations, wildlife recording groups and education institutions, have due regard

for biodiversity in setting their objectives.

“Biodiversity is a quality of life issue. It is an integral part of our surroundings,

giving us pleasure, interest, knowledge and understanding. It is an aspect of the

overall aim of sustainable development to ensure a decent quality of life for all, now

and for generations to come, and will be one key test of the success of this aim.” (UK Sustainable Development Strategy)

In order to achieve these objectives there needs to be a bottom up as well as a top

down approach. Strategies and policies are instrumental in driving forward

legislation, but this needs to be translated into action on the ground. This is best done

by the implementation of Local Biodiversity Action Plans (LBAP).

The main functions of these plans are:

• To translate national, regional and county biodiversity targets into

effective action at the local level.

• To consider species and habitat priorities at the local level, in terms of

rarity or their importance to the local community.

• To co-ordinate a wide partnership of individuals and organisations, to

deliver action in the most cost effective way, without duplication.

• To raise awareness with all sectors of society, including policy makers,

about the importance of an area’s biodiversity.

• To map out and consider opportunities for the enhancement of

biodiversity in the future.

• To provide a framework for conservation and a means by which

progress can be assessed.

Hook Parish Council has commissioned the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife

Trust to produce a review of the biodiversity within Hook Parish and to identify how

that biodiversity can be protected, enhanced and maintained in the future.


2

CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 1

SUMMARY 2

HOW TO USE HOOK PARISH LOCAL

BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 4

WHO IS HOOK LBAP FOR? 4

SECTION 1: BACKGROUND TO

BIODIVERSITY 6

1.1 What is Biodiversity? 6

1.2 From Rio to Hook Parish ....! 7

SECTION 2: WHAT IS AN LBAP? 8

2.1 What is and LBAP? 8

2.2 What will a Biodiversity Action Plan for

Hook Parish Achieve? 9

2.3 How can you get involved? 10

2.4 Useful contacts 11

2.5 How will the plan be implemented and

reviewed? 13

SECTION 3: AN AUDIT OF

BIODIVERSITY IN HOOK PARISH 14

3.1 A review of the influences on biodiversity in

Hook Parish 14

3.2 Designated sites in Hook Parish 16

3.3 Priority Habitats 18

3.4 Priority Species 20

SECTION 4: THREATS TO

BIODIVERSITY 23

4.1 What issues are affecting the

biodiversity of Hook Parish? 23

SECTION 5: ACTIONS FOR

BIODIVERSITY IN HOOK PARISH 25

5.1 A Vision for the future 25

5.2 Booklets

1 of 6: The River Whitewater and Floodplain

2 of 6: The Heathland

3 of 6: Ancient Woodlands

4 of 6: The Urban Environment

5 of 6: Ponds

6 of 6: Farmland Biodiversity

SECTION 6: PROGRESS OF THE LBAP

FOR HOOK PARISH 27

REFERENCES 28

FIGURES

1. Location of Hook Parish 5

2. Underlying Geology of Hook Parish 15

3. Designated Sites in Hook Parish 17

4. BAP Habitats in Hook Parish 19

5. Land Management Schemes in Hook

Parish 22

6. Map to show location of key areas described in

booklets 1 to 6 26


3

HOW TO USE THE HOOK PARISH LOCAL BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN

SECTION 1: Background to Biodiversity.

What is biodiversity, and what part can we all play

in ensuring that habitats and species are protected.

SECTION 2: What is an LBAP?

Find out why a Local Biodiversity Action Plan has

been produced for Hook Parish. Discover who is

involved in the protection and enhancement of

biodiversity. Find out how the plan will be

implemented and reviewed.

SECTION 3: An Audit of the Biodiversity of

Hook Parish

Data has been gathered on designated sites, both

statutory and non-statutory, priority species and

habitats and land management schemes. This

section provides a summary of the findings and

maps out the key biodiversity areas in Hook Parish.

SECTION 4: What Issues are affecting the

Biodiversity of Hook Parish?

Consultation has been undertaken with individuals

and organisations living and working in Hook

Parish to identify issues and threats which will need

to be addressed in order to protect the biodiversity

of Hook Parish.

SECTION 5: Actions for biodiversity in Hook

Parish.

Analysis of the audit and threats has resulted in the

production of targets that will ensure that Hook

Parish protects, maintains and enhances its wildlife

alongside sustainable development.

SECTION 6: Progress on the LBAP for Hook

Parish

Short reports from partners, on the progress of the

LBAP, which can be updated on a yearly basis.

WHO IS HOOK LBAP FOR?

This plan is aimed at anyone who has an

interest in the Biodiversity of Hook Parish:

• A local resident who wants to know about

the wildlife on their doorstep.

• A land owner who is interested in the

wildlife they are helping to protect.

• A conservation advisor who wants to know

where to concentrate effort, in order to achieve

the greatest gains for biodiversity.

• A statutory agency who is trying to maintain

habitats in favourable condition.

• A policymaker or planner, who needs to

know about the biodiversity value of the

landscape.


4

FIGURE 1: LOCATION OF HOOK PARISH IN RELATION TO HART DISTRICT, HAMPSHIRE

AND THE SOUTH EAST REGION

5

1.1: WHAT IS BIODIVERSITY?

“Biodiversity includes all species of plants and animals, and the complex ecosystems that sustain them.” (Hampshire Biodiversity Action Plan, 1998)

Biodiversity is life - The web of life intrinsically

links all species, from the smallest beetle to the

largest mammal. The most common and more

threatened species, with which we share our lives,

rely on a healthy environment to ensure our

survival.

Biodiversity provides our resources - From our

environment we take food, clothing and raw

materials for industry. We need to use these

resources sustainably to ensure that we pass them

on undamaged to future generations.

Biodiversity maintains our environment -

Without a stable environment we are more at risk

from floods, droughts, soil erosion and pollution.

The soils, rivers, air and species within them are

part of a giant natural cycle, cleansing waste and

absorbing the impacts of progress. We can use

biodiversity to measure how well these processes

are working.

Biodiversity is valuable for recreation - Most of us

spend part of our leisure time in the outdoors, in the

countryside, in nature reserves or in a local park. We

can promote these places and the plants and animals

that are found within them, to help people

understand why our environment is important.

Biodiversity gives us a sense of wellbeing - The

expression ‘Quality of life’ describes how healthy

we feel in our everyday lives. The health of our

environment can have a direct positive effect on how

we feel, whether it is our access to green spaces,

such as woodlands and parks, or birds visiting our

garden.

Biodiversity is important to us - We can all

appreciate how important our landscapes and the

plants and animals within them are. The dramatic

losses that have occurred in the past were the result

of damage and neglect in the past. We now have the

knowledge and means to ensure that we take better

care of our planet.

THE LOSS OF BIODIVERSITY IN

HAMPSHIRE

45%

reduction in Yellowhammer

population

50% of

ancient broadleaved

woodland lost

90% of

lowland heathland

lost

98% of

chalk grassland

lost

96% of

Common Snipe

territories lost on the

River Whitewater 1978 - 1991

SECTION 1: BACKGROUND TO BIODIVERSITY

6

1.2: FROM RIO TO HOOK PARISH . . . . . !

The Convention on Biological Diversity

The UK is one of 150 countries to sign the Convention, at the Earth Summit in Rio de

Janeiro, in 1992. The Convention recognised that biodiversity is under threat on a global

scale. All signatories agreed to produce a national strategy for the ‘conservation and

sustainable use of biological diversity.’

Biodiversity: The UK Action Plan

The UK was one of the first countries to respond to the requirements of the convention.

The government produced a broad strategy for the next twenty years to protect and

enhance the biodiversity of the UK.

The UK Biodiversity Group

Representatives from all agencies with a responsibility to biodiversity set about producing

co-ordinated targets for biodiversity under the following objectives

o Developing costed action plans for key species and habitats

o Putting systems in place to manage information and data

o Raising awareness and involvement

o Producing Local Biodiversity Action Plans

Hampshire Biodiversity Partnership

A partnership of local individuals and organisations was formed. ‘The plan aims to ensure

that national targets are translated into effective action at the local level, and that important

local features are also fully included in strategies for action.”

Biodiversity Strategy: The Loddon Catchment

The strategy aims to protect and enhance the biodiversity of the Loddon Catchment and

implement the actions in the UK, Regional and Local Biodiversity Action Plans by using

GIS mapping to identify key core areas for biodiversity, important buffer zones and

ecological corridors.

A Local Biodiversity Action Plan for Hook Parish

Production of a vision for the future of Hook Parish to ensure that biodiversity is protected

and enhanced for our own health and well being, both now and for future generations.

Hook Parish will be an important part of the global jigsaw for sustainable development.

1992

1994

1995

1998

2002

2004

SECTION 1: BACKGROUND TO BIODIVERSITY

7

2.1: WHAT IS AN LBAP?

‘The 1994 UK Biodiversity Action Plan recognised that biodiversity is ultimately lost or conserved at a local

level. It also recognised that achieving the Plan’s goal of conserving and enhancing biodiversity would

require a partnership approach. Nowhere is this more important than at a local level.’ (England Biodiversity Group, 2003)

As a signatory of the Convention on Biological

Diversity 1992, the UK had an obligation to outline

a programme of biodiversity. The UK Action Plan

suggested that Local Biodiversity Action Plans

may be one way of translating national targets and

creating local partnerships to gain wider public

commitment. This has been taken on-board at a

Regional, County, District and Parish level.

Despite LBAPs’ non-statutory status, there are

several delivery mechanisms, which can be used to

add weight to the recommendations made in Local

Biodiversity Action Plans.

The plans are written through agreement with a

partnership of organisations. All those who are

members of the Hampshire Biodiversity

Partnership have made a commitment to

implementing the actions within the Hampshire

Biodiversity Action Plan. These include Local

Authorities, regional voluntary organisations, land

managers, businesses, local records centres and

specialist recorders. All of the actions within the

Hook Parish BAP are translated from the County

actions and targets.

Each Local Authority must produce a Local

Agenda 21 Plan to promote sustainable

development within their area. Biodiversity is an

important element of sustainable development. The

World Summit on Sustainable Development, held

in Johannesburg in summer 2002, saw the call for

Local Authorities across the globe to move from

Agenda to Action! Launched at the Summit, Local

Action 21 marks the next phase of Local Agenda

21, as it enters its second decade. This should see

renewed action by Local Authorities to achieve

their targets for sustainable biodiversity.

The Local Government Act 2000 requires each

Local Authority to produce Community Strategies to

promote "the economic, social and environmental

wellbeing of their areas…". In doing so they propose

a vision for the future of the district, with

arrangements for monitoring the implementation of

the action plan, for periodically reviewing the

community strategy, and for reporting progress to

local communities.

The Countryside and Rights of Way Act places a

duty on Government departments, 'to have regard to

the purpose of conserving biological diversity in the

exercise of their functions'. Therefore, Local

Biodiversity Actions can act as supporting

information to local plans and policies, in addition to

policies on protected sites and species, as stated in

Policy Planning Guidance 9 (PPG9).

SECTION 2: WHAT IS AN LBAP?

8

2.2: WHAT WILL A BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN FOR HOOK PARISH ACHIEVE?

• Identifying key areas for Biodiversity:

Key areas will be within or contributing to adjacent

designated sites. A number of protected sites

adjacent to one another or a large designated area

will be more valuable for biodiversity, and more

resistant to damaging influences than isolated sites.

• Ensuring that key areas for biodiversity are

recognised in the relevant policy documents:

Hart District Local Plan aims to “protect all such

critical assets from inappropriate development,

which could irreparably harm them, their location or

setting.” This plan identifies key areas for protection

and enhancement, including those outside of

designated sites. This plan also links to the other

statutory and non-statutory documents highlighting

the opportunities for sustainable biodiversity.

• Influencing land use and planning to achieve

sustainable development:

A vision for the biodiversity of Hook Parish

provides an overview of priority areas where

management of land will have maximum benefits for

biodiversity. This vision can be used to advise the

planning process and to seek opportunities for

habitat restoration.

• Providing conservation advice to landowners

to enhance/restore habitats:

A Biodiversity Action Plan for Hook Parish provides

landowners and residents with information about the

BAP process, and demonstrates how work in one

area forms part of a bigger picture. Grants such as

Countryside Stewardship and Woodland Grant

Schemes can provide funding for restoration work.

Small scale changes in land management can also

greatly increase the value of a site for wildlife.

These changes are of maximum benefit where they

create a wildlife corridor or where they buffer a site.

Contacts details are given for those wanting more

information.

• Working with communities on public land to

enhance and restore habitats:

Communities within Hook Parish want to take pride

in the place where they live and work. This plan

demonstrates how important the wildlife of Hook

Parish is on a national and international scale.

Information is given about how people can get

involved.

• Conducting surveys on species and habitats

where there is a lack of information, to ensure

that management decisions are based on the best

available knowledge:

Although a wealth of information has been collected

about the biodiversity of Hook Parish there are still

areas where insufficient data is known about the

distribution and status of species and habitats, and

the interrelationships of certain areas with one

another. Recording groups can use the suggestions

within this plan to carry out future surveys.

• Monitoring species and habitats to ensure that

management is maintaining them in favourable

condition:

In order to ensure that this plan is up-to-date and

representative of the work needed in Hook Parish to

ensure sustainable biodiversity, all actions will be

monitored and reviewed. Communication between

conservation organisations, planners and individuals

will be needed to ensure that the plan is successful.

• Raising awareness of the ecological value of

Hook Parish with the community:

Providing information about the importance of the

biodiversity of Hook Parish is a key to successful

implementation of this plan. Information can be

disseminated through guided walks, talks, site

interpretation, biodiversity events, and discussions

with stakeholders including the parish council, local

businesses, land owners, schools and community

groups.


9

2.3: HOW CAN YOU GET INVOLVED?

Everyone can help to protect and enhance the environment in which we live, work and play. Each of us can

choose to do our bit for conservation, within and beyond our own gardens. There are many organisations which

can be joined, so as to support their work in your Parish. Alternatively you may want to become part of a

community group and you may need advice about how to proceed, and where to get grant aid.

Become a Tree Warden

The scheme set up after the 1987 storm gives

training to individuals to become tree wardens.

They are responsible for caring for the trees in their

community, including planting schemes, surveys,

school projects and national projects such as

National Tree Week. Contact Hook Parish for more

details.

Become a Pond Warden

If you are interested in all things aquatic, then you

should consider becoming a Pond Warden. The

British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV)

provides training on all aspects of pond

management, species identification and pond

creation.

Join a Community Group

Joining your local community group provides the

perfect opportunity to voice your opinions on local

conservation issues. The Hampshire Wildlife Trust

has a Planning Officer, who can offer advice on

planning applications which may have a negative

affect on the environment. People living in the

Parish will understand the nature of the

environment, better than someone who is not

familiar with the area. The knowledge that you

have of a particular site, or changes which you

have observed over time, can be invaluable.

If you don’t mind hard work, Hampshire Wildlife

Trust runs practical volunteer days on local nature

reserves. Tasks vary, but include tree planting,

scrub clearance and hedge laying.

Gardening for Wildlife

We are becoming increasingly aware of the

importance of gardens as habitats for wildlife.

Choosing flowers that provide a source of nectar

and pollen for butterflies or bees can bring even a

window box to life. The only things to remember

are shelter, food, water and places to breed.

Get Involved Through Your School

Providing an outdoor classroom to learn about the

natural world can be of great benefit. Most

organisations and individuals are willing to come

and help out with an event, or give a talk about

their experiences with wildlife.

Join a Species Group

There are enough species groups in Hampshire to

cover almost all wildlife recording interests. If

there isn’t one already, perhaps you can be the

person to set one up. If you want more information

about the variety of different species groups that

are co-ordinated throughout Hampshire, look in the

contact list. (see pages 11 and 12)

Become a Business Supporting the Local

Environment

Businesses can do their bit for the environment by

recycling paper and implementing green transport

plans. Local government and industry should aim

to use local produce, to encourage economic

growth in sustainable markets. It is also possible to

contribute by sponsoring a local conservation

project or a species group. These measures

positively contribute to the local environment and

enhances your business reputation.


10

2.4: USEFUL CONTACTS

If you want advice on management for

biodiversity, including available grants:

Department of Environment, Food and

Rural Affairs Rural Development Service, Government

Offices, Coley Park, Reading, Berks RG1 6DT

TEL: 01189 581222

EMAIL:[email protected]

WEBSITE: www.defra.gov.uk

Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group Hampshire FWAG, Sparsholt, Winchester,

Hants SO21 2NF

TEL: 01962 776441

EMAIL: [email protected]

WEBSITE: www.fwag.org.uk

Forestry Commission South East England Conservancy, Alice Holt,

Wrecclesham, Farnham, Surrey GU10 4LF

TEL: 01420 23337


WEBSITE: www.forestry.gov.uk

Game Conservancy Fordingbridge, Hants SP6 1EF

TEL: 01425 652381


WEBSITE: www.gct.org.uk

Hampshire Grazing Project Hampshire County Council, The Castle,

Winchester, Hants SO23 8UE

TEL: 01962 846521


Hampshire Heathlands Project Environment Group, Planning Department,

Hampshire County Council, The Castle,


TEL: 01962 845788


Forest of Eversley Project Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust,

Beechcroft House, Vicarage Lane, Curdridge,

Hampshire, SO32 2DP.

TEL: 01489 774 400


WEBSITE: www.hwt.org.uk

Woodlands Project Environment Group, Planning Department,

Hampshire County Council, The Castle,


TEL: 01962 845788


The Woodland Trust Autumn Park

Grantham

Lincolnshire, NG31 6LL

TEL: 01476 581111

WEBSITE: www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

If you want information on water

quality, resources and river

biodiversity:

Environment Agency Frimley Business Park, Camberley

Surrey GU16 5SQ

TEL: 08708 506 506

EMAIL: enquiries@environment-

agency.gov.uk

WEBSITE: www.environment-

agency.gov.uk

South East Otters and Rivers Project Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust,

Beechcroft House, Vicarage Lane,

Curdridge, Hampshire, SO32 2DP.

TEL: 01489 774 400



If you want to know about protected

sites and protected species:

English Nature 1 Southampton Road, Lyndhurst, Hants

SO43 7BU

TEL: 02380 283944


WEBSITE: www.english-nature.org.uk

Hampshire SINC Project Environment Department, Hampshire

County Council, The Castle, Winchester

SO23 8UE

TEL: 01962 846802


If you want to know about biodiversity:

Hampshire Biodiversity Partnership Biodiversity Officer, Environment

Department, Hampshire County Council,

The Castle, Winchester SO23 8UE

TEL: 01962 846802


WEBSITE:

www.hampshirebiodiversity.org.uk

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife

Trust Beechcroft House, Vicarage Lane, Curdridge,

Hampshire, SO32 2DP.

TEL: 01489 774 400



Hampshire and Isle of Wight Business

Advisory Forum Regional Business Centre, Harts Farm Way,

Havant, Hants PO9 1HR

TEL: 023 9244 9404


WEBSITE: www.egeneration.co.uk/hants

If you want to know about the

countryside:

Council for the Protection of Rural

England Beaconsfield House, Andover Road,

Winchester, Hants SO22 6AT

TEL: 01962 843655


WEBSITE: www.cpre.org.uk

Country Landowners Association Highclere Office, Brookfields, Westridge,

Highclere, Newbury, Berks RG20 9RX

TEL: 01635 255412


WEBSITE: www.cla.org.uk

Countryside Agency South East Region, Dacre House, 19 Dacre

Street, London SW1H 0DH

TEL: 0207 340 2900


WEBSITE: www.countryside.gov.uk

Friends of the Earth 64A Park Road, Farnborough, Hampshire

GU14 6LG

TEL: 01252 521891


WEBSITE:

www.bvfoe.freeserve.co.uk

National Farmers Union Agriculture House, Station Road, Liss, Hants

GU33 7AR

TEL: 01730 408 000


WEBSITE: www.nfuonline.com


11

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.defra.gov.uk/


http://www.fwag.org.uk/


http://www.forestry.gov.uk/


http://www.gct.org.uk/




http://www.hwt.org.uk/








http://www.english-nature.org.uk/

mailto:%[email protected]

mailto:%[email protected]

http://www.hampshirebiodiversity.org.uk/




http://www.egeneration.co.uk/hants


http://www.cpre.org.uk/


http://www.cla.org.uk/


http://www.countryside.gov.uk/


http://www.hantsfoe.org.uk/


http://www.nfuonline.com/

2.4: USEFUL CONTACTS (Continued)

If you want information about your

Administrative Areas:

Government Office for the South East Bridge House, 1 Walnut Tree Close, Guildford

GU1 4GA

TEL: 01483 882255


WEBSITE: www.go-se.gov.uk

Hampshire Association of Parish and

Town Councils St. Thomas’ Centre, 20 Southgate Street,

Winchester, Hants SO23 9EF

TEL: 01962 841699


WEBSITE: www.haptc.parish.hants.gov.uk

Hampshire County Council The Castle, Winchester, Hants SO23 8UE

TEL: 01962 870500


WEBSITE: www.hants.gov.uk

Hart District Council Civic Offices, Harlington Way, Fleet,

Hampshire, GU51 4AE.

TEL: 01252 622122

WEBSITE: www.hart.gov.uk

If you want to know about species

recording:

Butterfly Conservation Manor Yard, East Lulworth, near Wareham,

Dorset BH20 5QP

TEL: 01929 400209

EMAIL:

[email protected]

WEBSITE:

www.butterfly-conservation.org

Hampshire Amphibian and Reptile

Group Beechcroft House, Vicarage Lane,


TEL: 01489 774 400



Hampshire Badger Group 14 Sandown Close, Alton, GU34 2TG


WEBSITE:

www.badgerland.co.uk/badgergroups/southeast

Hampshire Bat Group TEL: 023 8061 7551

EMAIL:

[email protected]

WEBSITE: www.hants.gov.uk/bats

Hampshire Biodiversity

Information Centre Ashburton Court West

The Castle, Winchester SO23 8UE

TEL: 01962 846858


WEBSITE:

www.hants.gov.uk/biodiversity/hbic

Hampshire Flora Group Beechcroft House, Vicarage Lane,


TEL: 01489 774 400



Hampshire Fungus Recording

Group 16 Gordon Avenue, Winchester, Hants

SO23 0QQ

TEL: 01962 869725


Hampshire and Isle of Wight

Wildlife Trust Beechcroft House, Vicarage Lane,


TEL: 01489 774 400



Hampshire Mammal Group Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife

Trust, Beechcroft House, Vicarage

Lane, Curdridge, Hampshire, SO32

2DP.

TEL: 01489 774 400



Hampshire Network for

Invertebrate Conservation Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife

Trust, Beechcroft House, Vicarage

Lane, Curdridge, Hampshire, SO32

2DP.

TEL: 01489 774 400



Hampshire Ornithological Society The Membership Secretary, 36 Penhale Gardens,

Fareham, Hants PO14 4NL

TEL: 01489 571486


WEBSITE: www.hants.gov.uk/hos

National Conchological Society Conservation Officer, 14 Goodwood Close,

Midhurst, West Sussex GU29 9JG

TEL: 01483 411217 (work)


WEBSITE: www.conchsoc.org

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds South East England Office, 2nd Floor, 42

Frederick Place, Brighton, BN1 4EA

TEL: 01273 775333

WEBSITE: www.rspb.org.uk

If you want to volunteer:

BTCV Conservation Centre, Micheldever Wood,

Micheldever, Hants SO21 3BP.

TEL: 01962 774714


WEBSITE: www.btcv.org.uk

Hampshire Wildlife Trust Beechcroft House, Vicarage Lane,


TEL: 01489 774 400



Pond Warden Scheme BTCV, Conservation Centre, Micheldever

Wood, Micheldever, Hants SO21 3BP.

TEL: 01962 774714


WEBSITE: www.btcv.org.uk

If you want more information about

education resources:

Learning Through Landscapes

3rd Floor, Southside Offices, The Law Courts, Winchester, Hants SO23 9DL

TEL: 01962 846258

WEBSITE: www.ltl.org.uk


12


http://www.go-se.gov.uk/


http://www.haptc.parish.hants.gov.uk/


http://www.hants.gov.uk/





http://www.badgerland.co.uk/badgergroups/southeast


http://www.hants.gov.uk/bats


http://www.hants.gov.uk/biodiversity/hbic











http://www.hants.gov.uk/hos


http://www.conchsoc.org/

http://www.rspb.org.uk/




http://www.btcv.org.uk/

http://www.ltl.org.uk/

2.5: HOW WILL THE LBAP BE IMPLEMENTED AND REVIEWED?


National Biodiversity

Programme

Contribution to County

& National Targets

A Local Biodiversity Action

Plan for Hook Parish

CONSERVATION & ENHANCEMENT OF

HOOK PARISH’S BIODIVERSITY

Monitoring

& Review


Action Plan

(Adapted from the Hampshire Biodiversity Action Plan, 1998)

Partners use the plan as a

framework to determine

conservation priorities

and to write work plans.


Partnership website

highlights the contribution

that Hook Parish BAP is

making to county and

national targets.

Short reports on progress are

submitted to Hook Parish

Council to incorporate into the

BAP and to publicise work.

BAP is reviewed at five year

intervals, electronic maps and

key area booklets make up-

dating plans simple.

13

If we take a journey back through history we can

look at how the biodiversity of Hook Parish has

been strongly influenced by the actions of man. The

long timescales of change allowed species to adapt

to their new surroundings.

At our starting point, at around 5,000 BC, the

landscape is covered by dense woodland with large

grazing animals maintaining open clearings. Sea

levels have risen since the last Ice Age, separating

the UK from the rest of mainland Europe. Species

that had managed to spread northwards following

the retreating ice, before this separation, became the

UK’s native flora and fauna.

At the start of the Neolithic period the country was

covered by ‘wildwood’. Man learned how to clear

the woodland and begin keeping stock. Small

clearings were made in the wood, and once a site

had used up its fertility they would move to the next.

Species which once took advantage of the natural

clearings in the woodlands, when a tree fell over,

began to utilise these man made clearings.

By the Iron Age around 700 BC, there was an

established farming system. Farming was dictated by

the underlying geology and drainage patterns. In

Hook Parish the lighter soils on the London Clay

were cropped. On the poorer soils animals such as

ponies and pigs were grazed, and a heathland flora

and fauna developed. Woodlands were left in-situ

where the drainage was impeded, but a system of

coppicing replaced the wildwood to provide fuel and

timber for the local farmsteads.

The Roman occupation brought many new crops and

livestock to the British Isles and many species which

have become naturalised into the countryside such as

sweet chestnut. They brought about intensification

of agriculture and removal of more of the woodland.

They also encouraged trade and this influences the

development of road systems.

During the Saxon period war, disease and famine

caused huge declines in the population and thus

in the need for agriculture. Much of the land

became abandoned and reverted back to woodland.

Many of these woods exist as our ancient and semi-

natural woodland today. The Norman conquest,

like the Romans, brought many new species in to

Britain including the rabbit, pheasant and fallow

deer, all three of which have had a marked

influence on the development of our countryside.

The countryside of the Middle Ages was made up

of small subsistence farms and we have records of

a few scattered dwellings in Hook Parish from

around 1200 AD. As in the Iron Age there would

have been fields for crops on the fertile land,

grazing on the heathland commons, and coppicing

of the woodland. This pattern of agriculture has

certainly led to the distribution of habitat types

seen in Hook Parish today. The practice of

enclosure from 1400 AD added to the diversity by

creating miles of hedgerow across the landscape.

By the 18th Century Hook was becoming a thriving

hamlet serving the stage coaches and their

travellers. This prosperity continued into the 19th

Century with the coming of the railway and the

building of the station in 1883. During this time

small farmsteads continued to maintain the

landscape. This was a low intensity system, grazing

animals on the common and floodplain hay

meadows, and growing low input crops.

After the Second World War changes in farming

practices saw the intensification of agriculture and

a loss of traditional management techniques.

Coppicing ceased, fields were fertilised and

sprayed, and cattle were grazed on highly

productive sown grasslands.

Since the 1960’s the biodiversity of Hook Parish

has been under increasing pressure from

development including the M3 and several Major

Development Area (MDA) proposals. Lack of

heath and woodland management together with

development are now the greatest threats.

SECTION 3: AN AUDIT OF BIODIVERSITY IN HOOK PARISH

14

3.1 A REVIEW OF INFLUENCES ON BIODIVERSITY IN HOOK PARISH

FIGURE 2: UNDERLYING GEOLOGY OF HOOK PARISH


15

3.2 DESIGNATED SITES IN HOOK PARISH

Sites designated for wildlife conservation, are the

key areas for biodiversity in Hook Parish, provided

they are protected and managed. These key areas

conserve the species and habitats within them, but

also act as a “pool” for biodiversity. Species and

habitats can spread out into the wider countryside

from these pools when favourable conditions allow.

In unfavourable conditions these sites can provide a

refuge, allowing species and habitats to survive until

such time as favourable conditions return.

It is essential that these sites are maintained in

favourable condition. This requires long term

management plans, with sustainable management

options. For example, sites requiring conservation

grazing must be based within a sound pastoral

economy, to provide grazing stock and adequate

layback land for the area of land being managed.

It is also important that these sites are managed as

part of the wider countryside and not as isolated

islands for wildlife. In order to achieve sustainable

biodiversity there need to be wildlife corridors

between conservation sites, so that species can move

freely between them. This will ensure the exchange

of genetic material between populations and will

allow species to re-colonise areas, if there is

population loss from a site.

Sites also need to be of an adequate size to be

sustainable and should be buffered from adverse

effects. A small site will have a larger edge to area

ratio and will be under pressure from any outside

influence, e.g. pollution. A series of sites joined by

wildlife corridors are therefore stronger in ecological

terms, rather than a number of isolated sites.

Within Hook Parish itself the designated sites are

mostly on the periphery or split by the Parish

boundary. These sites are part of larger designated

blocks e.g. Hook Woods and Hook Common.

Therefore for the purposes of the BAP the whole site

has been considered rather than just the area within

the parish.

In Hook Parish there is one Site of Special Scientific

Interest (SSSI), called Hook Common and Bartley

Heath SSSI. It represents one of the best examples of

wet heathland habitat based on national criteria. The

South East England Biodiversity Forum (SEEBF)

target, based on UK Government targets, proposes

that all SSSIs should be in favourable condition by

2010.

English Nature is responsible for recording this site’s

condition and has powers under the Countryside and

Rights of Way Act 2000 to ensure that such sites are

maintained in favourable condition.

Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation

(SINC) are non-statutory designations identified

because of their importance to wildlife on a county

scale. There are 13 SINCs within or directly adjacent

to Hook Parish. These include 11 woodland sites, 1

grassland site and 1 heathland site. These sites form

part of the core biodiversity area and are recognised

as such in Hart’s Local Plan. Provision of

management advice is important to ensure favourable

management of these sites. A target has been set to

offer advice on management and grants to all SINC

owners by 2010 (SEEBF, 2002).

Figure 3 lists these SINCs, including their area and

the criteria under which they have been designated.

Hampshire County Council and Hampshire and Isle of

Wight Wildlife Trust in partnership with the local

authorities, are responsible for assessing sites against

the criteria and notifying the landowner of the

importance of the designation. The Hampshire

Biodiversity Information Centre (HBIC) has a rolling

survey programme to monitor SINC condition.

There are additional areas outside of these designated

sites which may meet the criteria for SINC

designation. The River Whitewater itself is a priority

chalk river habitat, under the Hampshire BAP and

may qualify under criteria 5A. The airfield appears to

be a species rich grassland and may qualify under

criteria 2B or 2D.


16

FIGURE 3: DESIGNATED SITES IN HOOK PARISH

Site Area (ha) SINC Criteria

1A 1B 2B 2D 3Bi 5A 6A 7A

Hook Common & Bartley Heath SSSI 122.20

1. Carleton's Gorse 29.33 * * * * *

2. College Copse 8.35 *

3. Owen's Farm Meadow 2.03 *

4. Hill Copse 3.41 *

5. Shirlens Copse 6.60 *

6. Twelve Acre Copse 3.00 * *

7. Ashwells Copse 0.59 * *

8. Totter Copse 1.28 *

9. North Runten's Copse 2.10 * *

10. Great Nightingale Copse 11.17 *

11. Little Nightingale Copse 1.00 *

12. Dogtails Copse 11.96 *

13. Borough Court Copse 4.03 *

1A: Ancient semi-natural woodland.

1B: Other woodland where there is a significant

element of ancient semi-natural woodland surviving.

2B: Semi-improved grasslands which retain a

significant element of unimproved grassland.

2D: Grasslands which have become impoverished

through inappropriate management but which retain

sufficient elements of relic grassland to enable

recovery.

3Bi: Areas of heathland which are afforested or have

succeeded to woodland if they retain sufficient

remnants of heathland vegetation would enable their

recovery.

5A: Areas of open freshwater which support

outstanding assemblages of floating/ submerged/

emergent plant species, invertebrates, birds or

amphibians.

6A: Sites which support one or more notable species.

7A: Sites of nature conservation interest which occur

in areas otherwise deficient in such interest, and/or

are known to be of particularly high value to local

communities


17

3.3 PRIORITY HABITATS

Data on habitat and species distribution is held by the

Hampshire Biodiversity Information Centre. This data

has been collated and grouped according to BAP

categories. Figure 4 shows that Hook Parish can

almost be divided into thirds. One third urban, one

third improved land for agriculture and one third

semi-natural habitats.

The habitat descriptions in the following section

summarise why these habitats have been identified as

a priority for biodiversity action at a county and

regional level. More detailed descriptions of sites are

included with the Hook Parish Action Plan booklets.

Ancient and semi-natural woodlands: are those

which have been in existence since at least 1600.

They are important for their rich assemblages of

ground flora, lichen, fern and fungal communities. An

estimated 50% of woodland has been lost in

Hampshire over the last 50 years.

Unimproved grasslands: These grasslands have

evolved over the centuries from continued use by

man, primarily for grazing livestock. These grasslands

are rich in plants including nationally rare orchids.

This flora supports a rich invertebrate community,

which in turn provides a food resource for breeding

and migratory bird species. In Hampshire 98% of this

habitat type has been lost, therefore any remaining

habitat is a priority for conservation.

Heathlands: Describes a habitat dominated by

heathers and dwarf shrubs. Within this landscape

there is a mosaic of wet heaths grading into valley

mires and bogs, and open commons dominated by

acid grasslands. In Hampshire this habitat has

declined by over 50% in the last 200 years and it is

rare across Europe. Heathland is very important for

plants, reptiles and bird species which are restricted

and often exclusive to this habitat type, such as the

Dartford Warbler.

Wetlands: are those habitats which are dependent on

high water levels such as fens, marsh, carr, swamp

and reedbeds. They also include ponds and lakes

which were once a feature of natural river valleys.

For the purposes of this BAP the River Whitewater

has been included in this generic habitat type because

it too is under pressure from the need for water

resources, including abstraction for domestic and

agricultural purposes.

Arable land: Although nearly 40% of the land use in

Hook Parish is arable or improved grassland there are

opportunities for biodiversity. Hedgerows are often

remnants of ancient woodland and can provide a

habitat for a diverse range of species including

butterflies, birds and bats. Some species have evolved

alongside man’s use of the land for agriculture and

have found a niche within the cultivated landscape.

These include rare arable plants, small mammals and

ground nesting birds. Intensification of agriculture has

resulted in declines of these species. However they

often survive within field margins, where fertilizers

and chemical inputs are reduced. Agri-environment

grants such as the countryside stewardship scheme are

available to increase the opportunities for wildlife

across farms. Small changes in management without

the need for grants can also provide major benefits to

biodiversity.

Urban habitats: It is important to consider the built

environment alongside the habitats of the wider

countryside. Open spaces, gardens, brownfield sites

and churchyards can all provide important habitats for

wildlife. Many species have adapted to share our

living space. Simply having a pond in the garden, or a

wildlife area within a local park or school can provide

an important resource for butterflies, birds,

amphibians and bats. There are many opportunities

for the public to get involved with conserving wildlife

in your parish. See Booklet 4 of 6 for more details.

Development within urban areas should consider the

potential for integrating wildlife within the design

brief, for example retaining eaves that can be used by

birds such as swallows and sparrows. Developers

should also consider the opportunities for supporting

the local economy when sourcing materials, such as

timber, to provide a market for traditional

management practices.


18

FIGURE 4: BAP HABITATS

IN HOOK PARISH


19

Data on the distribution and

extent of habitats in

Hampshire, supplied by the


Information Centre (HBIC).

3.4 PRIORITY SPECIES

The habitats in Hook Parish support a multitude of

species. Collation of data on the distribution of

priority species is essential in determining the

success of conservation initiatives.

A full list of all the Hampshire Biodiversity Action

Plan species recorded within the Parish have been

listed on the following page. At the end of each of

the Hook Parish Biodiversity Action Plan booklets

there are lists of species which are relevant to the

habitat type. These include species which are

important at the local level.

To review all species individually is beyond the

scope of this document, and many species will

maintain a healthy self-sustaining population if the

habitat they depend on is in favourable condition.

However, there are certain species which are worth

mentioning because they meet one or more of the

following criteria:

1. They have statutory protection

2. They have been identified as an indicator of

sustainable development

3. They are a flagship species for a habitat type

1. Bats

All species of bats are fully protected under

Schedule 5 of The Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981.

It is illegal to disturb bats or the places where they

roost. Bat populations are threatened not only by

loss of habitat, affecting roosting sites and feeding

grounds, but also by deliberate killing.

The woodland, farmland, river and residential

properties of the parish are important for a wide

range of bat species. Identifying foraging and roost

sites and determining the effects of existing

management schemes on bats can help to strengthen

populations. The results of surveys must be widely

disseminated to support the popularisation and

understanding of bats with the general public and

landowners.

2. Populations of wild birds

The status of populations of wild birds has been

identified as a biodiversity indicator in the Sustainable

Development Framework. Birds have been recorded

systematically for a long time, and we have good

information about whether their populations are

increasing or declining. They are a good indicator of

the health of our environment because if the numbers

of a particular species are declining, we know that

there is something wrong with the habitat. Bird

populations are a feature for many of the national and

international designations, but are equally important

in the wider countryside and in our towns.

Data on bird species are collected by the Hampshire

Ornithological Society and disseminated to national

bird conservation organisations. It is important that

information also reaches local conservation

organisations to inform management decisions.

3. Butterflies

Butterflies are good indicators of the health of some

habitats. If a habitat is in good or favourable condition

then it should have a good complement of associated

butterfly species. Different habitat types support

different butterflies. Populations are vulnerable to

local extinctions and require a network of habitats to

allow individuals to move back into areas where

populations have been lost. The Butterfly

Conservation Trust is monitoring populations over

time to determine the area and distribution of suitable

habitat, but also to provide a picture of long term

environmental change.


20

3.4 PRIORITY SPECIES

SPECIES OCCURRING IN HOOK PARISH WHICH ARE LISTED IN THE HAMPSHIRE BAP

Triturus cristatus Great crested newt Amphibian

Lucanus cervus Stag beetle Beetles

Alauda arvensis Sky lark Birds

Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar Birds

Carduelis cannabina Linnet Birds

Cettia cetti Cetti’s warbler Birds

Dendrocopos minor Lesser spotted woodpecker Birds

Falco subbuteo Hobby Birds

Lullula arborea Woodlark Birds

Miliaria calandra Corn bunting Birds

Muscicapa striata Spotted flycatcher Birds

Perdix perdix Grey partridge Birds

Pluvialis apricaria Golden plover Birds

Pyrrhula pyrrhula Bullfinch Birds

Streptopelia turtur Turtle dove Birds

Turdus philomelos Song thrush Birds

Vanellus vanellus Lapwing Birds

Apatura iris Purple emperor Butterflies

Argynnis paphia Silver-washed fritillary Butterflies

* Boloria selene Small Pearl-bordered fritillary Butterflies

* Euphydryas aurinia Marsh fritillary Butterflies

Strymonidia w-album White letter hairstreak Butterflies

Austropotamobius pallipes White-clawed crayfish Crustaceans

Cordulia aenea Downy emerald Dragonflies

Orthetrum coerulescens Keeled skimmer Dragonflies

Cottus gobio Bullhead Fishes

Lampetra planeri Brook lamprey Fishes

* Damasonium alisma Starfruit Flowering plants

Gentiana pneumonanthe Marsh gentian Flowering plants

Apodemus flavicollis Yellow-necked mouse Mammals

Arvicola terrestris Water vole Mammals

Eptesicus serotinus Serotine bat Mammals

Lepus europaeus Brown hare Mammals

Micromys minutus Harvest mouse Mammals

Muscardinus avellanarius Dormouse Mammals

Pipistrellus pipistrellus Pipistrelle Mammals

Apoda limacodes Festoon Moths

Eligia similella Moths

* Hemaris tityus Narrow-bordered bee hawk Moths

* Oria musculosa Brighton wainscot Moths

* Rheumaptera hastata Argent and sable Moths

Shargacucullia lychnitis Striped lychnis Moths


21

* Species now thought to be extinct in Hook Parish

FIGURE.5: LAND MANAGEMENT SCHEMES IN HOOK PARISH


22

The Woodland Grant Scheme (WGS) provides grants to

create new woodlands and to encourage the good

management and regeneration of existing woodlands.

The Scheme also aims to encourage good management

of woodlands, including their well timed regeneration,

particularly looking after the ancient and semi-natural

woodlands; provide jobs and improve the economy of

rural areas and other areas with few other sources of

economic growth; and to provide a use for land instead

of agriculture The amount of funding will increase under

the England Rural Development Programme.

(Information from www.defra.gov.uk)

Agri-environment schemes are not always appropriate

because of the length of the management agreements,

the amount of grant available and limitations on how the

money can be spent. However, small changes in

management practices without the need for grants can

have enormous benefits for biodiversity (see booklet 6).

There are grants available to undertake works that

will benefit biodiversity both within and outside of

designated sites. Land adjacent to a designated site

that is under an agri-environment scheme can help to

buffer the sensitive site from adverse impacts along

its perimeter. Figure 5 shows land that is currently

under one of these schemes.

The Countryside Stewardship Scheme is the

Government's main scheme for the wider

countryside, which aims, through the payment of

grants, to improve the natural beauty and diversity of

the countryside, enhance, restore and recreate

targeted landscapes, their wildlife habitats and

historical features, and to improve opportunities for

public access. This scheme is being replaced by the

Environmental Stewardship Scheme in 2005. The

new scheme has a lower and higher tier option

giving more choice to landowners and more

opportunities to enhance biodiversity.

http://www.defra.gov.uk/

4.1 WHAT ISSUES ARE AFFECTING THE BIODIVERSITY OF HOOK PARISH?

In order to ensure that biodiversity is protected, we

need to look at the issues that have caused a

decline in the number of species and habitats, as

well as the factors which need to be resolved in

order to restore habitats and populations in future.

These issues may be able to be resolved at a local

level, but many are issues affecting the whole of

the UK or even on a global scale. Understanding

these issues will help us to plan what conservation

measures we need to take in the future.

Loss of species and habitats

Human influence has had a marked effect on

biodiversity over the last 100 years. The differing

intensities of farming systems within the parish

have determined what semi-natural habitats

remain, or whether there is a monoculture of arable

and improved grassland. The remaining habitats

are under significant pressure from the loss of

mixed farming and declines in the pastoral

economy.

Traditional management techniques were in regular

use until the beginning of the 20th century. The

British flora and fauna has adapted to live

alongside and often benefited from these

management practices. However, in the last 100

years the rapid developments in the agricultural

sector and cessation of traditional techniques have

had a devastating effect on native wildlife. Species

have not been able to adapt and have become

isolated or extinct.

Although many of the remaining habitats have

been designated as local wildlife sites for their high

biodiversity value, some are not under positive

management. Sites designated as SSSI may also be

in unfavourable condition. In order to maintain

most wetlands and woodlands there needs to be

some form of active management. In wetland sites,

this is often best achieved through reinstatement of

water levels and grazing. In woodlands, a range of

options should be considered including thinning,

grazing, ride widening, removal of conifers and

reinstatement of coppicing.

There is a need to promote sustainable farming that

uses methods beneficial to species and habitats. At a

local level this can be through sale of local products,

such as coppice goods, meat from conservation grazing

herds, and crops from farms that are supporting

wildlife. At a national level, reforms in agricultural

policy which improve agri-environment schemes will

make it possible for more land owners to run a

successful business which also benefits biodiversity.

Development

Pressure from development is particularly significant in

Hook Parish, and it has a direct and visible effect on the

environment, but also knock-on effects including the

need for more landfill, mineral extraction and

abstraction from and discharges into watercourses.

Legislation is in place which requires protection of sites

with statutory designation such as SSSIs, as well as

protection of species listed in the Wildlife and

Countryside Act 1981. There is also government

guidance for protection of locally important wildlife

sites (SINCs). These policies are recognised within

Hart District Local Plan.

Planning decisions and other strategic documents

should be based on sound ecological data to ensure that

that key areas for biodiversity are protected from

development. There is a need to improve the policies

relating to protection of species and habitats beyond

those statutory designations: species that have a high

biodiversity value but not necessarily protection under

the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981. If a proposal is

likely to have a direct or indirect effect on any feature

of conservation interest, then there must be a plan of

action to ameliorate the effects of the development, as

well as to enhance and monitor adjacent habitats.

SECTION 4: THREATS TO BIODIVERSITY

23

Habitat fragmentation

Loss of habitats leads to isolation and fragmentation of the remaining habitats,

and creates obstacles to species dispersal. Small blocks of land are more

susceptible to degrading influences along their perimeter which means that

smaller and smaller fragments of habitat remain. Designated areas in isolation

are not sufficient to ensure habitats and species are maintained at an optimum

level. A buffer is needed around these sensitive habitats, and preferably corridors

of habitat should be created between semi-natural habitats to ensure species

dispersal and to allow genetic exchange. Where there is any doubt the

Precautionary Principle should be applied.

Forward planning should prevent habitat fragmentation, with an emphasis on

seeking opportunities to undertake habitat restoration, both as mitigation to

development but also to strengthen areas which would benefit from management

to enhance biodiversity. Use should be made of existing wildlife corridors such

as hedgerows, field margins and road verges. Simple conservation measures

such as cutting regimes can have potentially large conservation benefits to these

habitats. Advice can be sought from conservation advisers on management

techniques and available grants to increase the wildlife potential of these

habitats.

Any restoration projects must be based on study of existing habitats and species.

An area with apparently low biodiversity value may support priority BAP

species with specific requirements.

Climate change

This global issue will have increasingly significant effects on biodiversity in the

future. It is now accepted that our climate is changing. Current climate models

predict that global temperatures could increase between 1.4 to 5.8oC over the

next 100 years. It has not been agreed why this is happening, although it is

believed that the natural flux in temperatures may be being accelerated

unnaturally by the build up of greenhouse gases in the earth’s atmosphere.

For us, climate change could mean more summer droughts, increases in winter

rainfall (and therefore flooding incidents), and higher temperatures throughout

the year. Habitats already under threat, such as wetlands, may be lost. Species

unable to adapt to any new conditions will have to migrate, but due to habitat

loss and fragmentation, may be unable to do so. In Hook Parish these changes

will be particularly felt, because many of the species found here are on the edge

of their range. Plans need to be put in place, which consider the hydrological

regimes and habitats under threat.

24

5.1 A VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF HOOK PARISH

In the last 100 years there has been a dramatic loss in the number of species, and extent

of good quality habitat, across the parish. Wildlife has been pushed into smaller and

more isolated areas, under significant pressure from land use, development and the way

we live our lives. Conservation initiatives in the last 50 years have identified the

remaining sites that are important for wildlife and protected them through designation; a

small proportion of the countryside is managed for wildlife. Unfortunately these small,

isolated pockets are often under increasing pressure, and they will be un-sustainable in

the long term if they are managed in isolation from the wider countryside.

To ensure a sustainable future for our wildlife we need to create and maintain key core

areas for biodiversity. These areas will ensure species survival and should also be places

where people can appreciate, and learn more about, the wildlife on their doorstep. It is

then important to ensure that these core areas are buffered from detrimental influences,

and that links are made across the countryside to allow species dispersal both between

protected areas, and into the wider countryside. By viewing a landscape in its entirety,

by mapping the key areas for biodiversity, and by making the links between them, it is

possible to prioritise conservation management and target it to where it is needed. This

can be done most effectively by working in partnership.

This plan is not being written in isolation. The targets which it sets out to achieve are

based on county, regional and national action plans. Local Biodiversity Action Plans

(LBAP) are also being written by the adjoining local authorities, therefore this plan

forms a piece of a jigsaw that operates beyond administrative boundaries at a truly

landscape scale. This plan encourages the involvement of community groups and key

sectors of the community. If future projects can be carried out with the support and

understanding of the local community, they will have a greater chance of success.

All of the actions proposed in this plan are subject to landowner permission and

availability of funding. It is hoped that this plan will provide a context for conservation

action and demonstrate how projects form part of the bigger picture. This plan should

also provide the opportunity for individuals and organisations to seek joint funding to

achieve large gains for biodiversity within the parish.

The Biodiversity Action Plan for Hook Parish is designed to be a working document,

and the actions and targets herein will be monitored to measure the success of

implementation. Communication between the individuals, groups and organisations

working in Hook Parish will continue, and the plan will be refined to reflect priorities

and changes in the landscape in future.

The following booklets provide detailed actions that could be implemented to protect

and enhance the biodiversity of Hook Parish.

SECTION 5: ACTIONS FOR BIODIVERSITY IN HOOK PARISH

25

FIGURE 6: MAP TO SHOW LOCATION OF KEY AREAS DESCRIBED IN BOOKLETS 1 TO 6

SECTION 5: ACTIONS FOR BIODIVERSITY IN HOOK PARISH

26

SECTION 6: PROGRESS OF THE LBAP FOR HOOK PARISH

A Local Biodiversity Action Plan should be a fluid document, able to adapt and

respond to changes in circumstances. This could be in response to:

• Opportunities which will allow targets to be implemented, e.g. existence

of new funding streams or development control polices (Section 106

Agreements).

• Changes in planning policy at a national, regional or local level.

• The emergence of new issues or threats, that were not apparent at the

time of writing the LBAP in 2004.

• New information on the distribution and status of species, following

survey, which may highlight new priorities.

• The need to develop new targets, to reflect these changes and to update

targets, as those within the existing plan are completed.

It is also important to monitor the implementation of the LBAP, assessing its

strengths and weaknesses, and to promote projects which have helped to

achieve LBAP targets. This can be achieved through a variety of media

including articles within Hook Focus, pages on the Hook Parish Website, and

dissemination though the County and National BAP Partnerships.

In order to help focus the targets within the Hook Parish LBAP, each has been

given a time scale, as follows.

Short Term (ST) – A project which is already underway or which should be in

progress within 2 years following production of this plan.

Mid Term (MT) – Aspirations for the next 10 years. These projects should be

possible within a 5-10 year time frame, to have reached at least the project

planning stage.

Long Term (LT) – Targets which will achieve sustainable biodiversity within

the Parish of Hook in the Long Term. These projects may be on going with

minor revisions to the overall aim, or may be a long-term goal, which will

require significant changes in local, regional or national policy in order to

achieve them.

SECTION 6: PROGRESS OF THE LBAP FOR HOOK PARISH

27

REFERENCES

Colebourn, P. 1994, Proof of Evidence, Ecological

Planning and Research

Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000

DoE, 1994, Biodiversity-The UK Action Plan.

DoE, 1994, Planning Policy Guidance: Nature

Conservation PPG9.

DoE, 1999, A Better Quality of Life.

DoE, 1999, Quality of Life Counts.

DETR, 2001, Sustaining the Variety of Life: Five

Years of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

DEFRA, Guidence notes for LBAPs, Biodiversity

Policy Unit

DEFRA, 2002, Working with the Grain of Nature –

A Biodiversity Strategy for England

Ecological Planning and Research 1996 Forest of

Eversley: Feasibility of Heathland Forest

Restoration, Draft Report

Edwards, J. 1994, Proof of Evidence, Hampshire

County Council

England Biodiversity Group, 2003, Natural

Partners, The achievements of local biodiversity

partnerships in England

English Nature 1995 Ancient Woodland Inventory

English Nature 1991 SSSI Citation for Hook

Common and Bartley Heath

English Nature 1986 SSSI Citation for Butter Wood

English Nature 2002 Hedgerow Survey Handbook

– a standard procedure for local surveys in the UK

Environment Agency 2000 Focus on Biodiversity

Forestry Commission, 1998 New Focus for

England’s Woodlands, Strategic Priorities and

Programmes

Good R., 2000, The Value of Gardening for

Wildlife. British Wildlife, December 2000 Vol.12

No. 2 pp

77- 84.

Government Office for the South East, 2001,

Regional Planning Guidance for the South East

(RPG 9).

Hampshire Biodiversity Partnership 1998

Hampshire Biodiversity Action Plan. Volume 1.

Hampshire Biodiversity Partnership 2000

Hampshire Biodiversity Action Plan. Volume 2.

Hampshire County Council, 2000, The Hampshire

Landscape, a Strategy for the Future.

Hampshire County Council, 2004, Sites of

Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs) Hart

District

Hart District Council, 2003, Hart District Local

Plan (Replacement) 1996 - 2006

The Hedgerows Regulations 1997

John Rowe 1994 Survey of Hook Woodlands on

behalf of the Hampshire Habitat Assessment Team

Local Government Act 2000

ODPM, 2002, Planning Policy Guidance 11:

Regional Planning

ODPM, Preparing community strategies: government

guidance to local authorities

Royal Town Planning Institute, 1999, Planning for

Biodiversity: Good Practice Guide

South East England Biodiversity Forum (SEEBF),

2002, Action for Biodiversity in the South East.

South East England Development Agency

(SEEDA), Building a World Class Region an

Economic

Strategy.

UK Biodiversity Steering Group, 1995,

Biodiversity: The UK Steering Group Report, Vols.

1&2.

UK Biodiversity Steering Group, 1999, Tranche 2

Action Plans, Vols. I-VI.

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981

Websites

DEFRA www.defra.gov.uk

English Nature www.english-nature.org.uk

Environment Agency

www.environment-agency.gov.uk


www.hampshirebiodiversity.org.uk

National Biodiversity Network www.nbn.org.uk

UK Biodiversity Website www.ukbap.org.uk

Hart District Council www.hart.gov.uk

Hook Parish Council www.hook.gov.uk

Virtual Hook www.virtualhook.co.uk


28

http://www.ukbap.org.uk/

http://www.virtualhook.co.uk/

AREA

Floodplain

grassland: 88.9ha

THE RIVER WHITEWATER AND FLOODPLAIN

CURRENT STATUS The River Whitewater has been assessed

as part of the Loddon Catchment

Abstraction Management Strategy

(CAMs) and has been found to be ‘over-

abstracted’. Whilst there is no ecological

evidence to show how this may be

impacting the environment, a

precautionary principle has been taken to

prevent any new licensed abstractions.

To prevent this problem being

compounded by nutrient enrichment from

diffuse pollution there should be a wide

buffer strip adjacent to the water course.

This strip is currently quite narrow and

the marginal vegetation kept short.

Sections of taller vegetation would

benefit species such as water vole and

many insect species.

The River Whitewater rises from chalk

springs at Upton Grey and flows on to

Bramshill, where it is joined by the River

Hart. It is a slow and meandering river

creating a broad and shallow valley,

criss-crossed by braided streams and

ditches. The water is clear, rated as good

to very good by the Environment Agency

General Quality Assessment.

At its source, the river is protected as

either SSSI or SINC, but as the river

flows downstream through Hook Parish,

it is currently undesignated. SINC

designation should be considered for this

section as well.

The east of Hook parish is very rural, with relatively small fields, divided by a

network of hedges. Through the middle of this landscape flows the River Whitewater.

This plan considers the waters and wetlands of Hook Parish and the land within and

adjacent to the floodplain. This unit is considered to be essential in ensuring the long

term sustainability of biodiversity in Hook Parish, but also as an essential unit of the

functioning of the Loddon Catchment as a whole.

Chalk rivers and their floodplains receive the highest priority in the UK BAP process.

There are as few as 35 in the UK, all located in south and east England. These rivers

have clear waters with a generally stable flow and temperature regime. They support a

rich BAP flora and fauna, and are a valuable habitat for fisheries, with the upper

reaches being a significant salmonid spawning area.

The Water Framework Directive is the most powerful piece of water legislation from

Europe and will drive water conservation. It requires all inland and coastal waters to

reach at least "good status" by 2015. The Directive therefore sets a framework which

should provide substantial benefits for the long term sustainable management of water

in the UK. The purpose of this Directive is,

“To establish a framework for the protection of inland surface waters, transitional

waters, coastal waters and groundwater which, prevents further deterioration and

protects and enhances the status of aquatic ecosystems and, with regard to their water

needs, terrestrial ecosystems and wetlands directly depending on the aquatic

ecosystems.” (Water Framework Directive, 2003)

BOOKLET 1 OF 6 PAGE 1


CURRENT STATUS (Continued)

The adjacent floodplain habitat in this area has

developed as a result of management by man,

especially use of the land for grazing. The

grasslands would have provided early fertile

spring growth for livestock. This fertility was also

ideal for growing crops, and with the advances in

technology, farmers were able to drain the land to

grow food. Once the fertility was lost from these

soils, artificial fertilisers were added which

ultimately reduced floristic diversity.

The semi-improved grasslands that currently

border the river have the potential for wetland

restoration.

The potential for restoration is being realised at

Holt Lane, where a Section 106 agreement has

secured land for the Parish Council. The site could

best be restored, to benefit the wildlife of the river,

in the following ways:

1. Moving the fence away from the river bank at

least 5-10m, to increase the area of marginal

vegetation.

2. Reducing nutrient levels in the soil by chisel

harrowing, or sowing with green hay in the first

instance.

3. Blocking up drainage ditches to create wet

grassland, managed through grazing.

4. Increase age structure in the wet alder

woodland at Holt Copse by selective felling.

5. Undertake ride management to increase

diversity.

This example could be repeated both up and

downstream of the Holt Lane site, and on both

sides of the river. The management could be

undertaken by private individuals, with grant aid

from agri-environment schemes, or under planning

agreements.

This management would create a corridor of

habitat along the Whitewater, which would allow

many species to return and flourish in the area. It

would also provide a natural strategic gap to limit

development from Hook eastwards.



THREATS

Development – Both direct and indirect impacts

including loss of habitat, increase in demands for

water, effluent discharges and flooding risk.

Abstraction – A reduction in the amount of water

available can lead to an increase in sediment load

and deposition. In chalk stream this can produce a

silted substrate which impacts on the river fauna,

suppressing growth of beneficial aquatic species.

Drainage – Creating ditches to drain the land

faster will reduce the floristic diversity of the

grassland, and can also increase soil and fertiliser

run-off into the river.

Pollution – There is little point source pollution on

the Whitewater but diffuse pollution from

agricultural run-off could be lowering water

quality. This can be resolved by wide buffer strips

adjacent to the water course.

Intensification of agriculture – Increased use of

fertilisers to increase production reduces floristic

diversity of the grassland and can lead to diffuse

pollution. A move away from low intensity

grazing to high stocking densities or arable crops

further reduces diversity.

Invasive alien species – The River Whitewater has

been invaded by three species which are causing

damage to the native flora and fauna.

1. Mink - Releases into the wild have caused

declines in the numbers of water vole and

waterfowl.

2. Signal crayfish - The decline of native crayfish

has been largely attributed to fungal plague

introduced by signal crayfish. This bigger, more

fecund species also causes bank erosion.

3. Water fern Azolla filiculoides. A rapidly

spreading species that can swamp rivers to the

exclusion of native species.

Eradication programmes are being developed, but

there is a need to raise awareness amongst the

general public about the dangers of introducing

alien species in to natural habitats.

PROPOSED ACTIONS

T1: A3: Review quality of River Whitewater

against SINC designation criteria. Work towards

achieving the standard for designation if it does

not currently meet the criteria. (HBIC, HCC, EA)

ST

T1: A4: Implement programme of eradication of

invasive alien species as part of a co-ordinated

programme of control across the whole

catchment. (EA) MT



TARGETS

T1: Ensure that current initiatives take account of the quality of the River Whitewater and prevent

declines in river water quality and protected species.

T2: Work towards the creation of a wide corridor of good quality habitat along both sides of the River

Whitewater. Ensure that adequate measures are in place for long term sustainable management of the

site.

T3: Raise awareness amongst policy makers, planners and the general public of the importance of the

River Whitewater in terms of ecological quality, landscape history and as an important unit of the larger

Loddon Catchment.

T1:A1: Monitor water quality and flow, and

determine if abstraction is having an adverse

impact on river flora and fauna. Review licenses,

or enforce restrictions at times of low flow. (EA,

HWT, HPC, WVPS) MT

T1: A2: Ensure that adequate policies are in

place to comply with the Water Framework

Directive and provide sustainable water

resources, without impacting on wetland

habitats. (EA, HDC, HCC) MT

CURRENT ACTION

The Loddon Biodiversity Strategy is a partnership

document funded by the Environment Agency,

which considers the factors affecting biodiversity on

a catchment scale and determines where action could

be taken to achieve sustainable biodiversity.

The Environment Agency is also responsible for

preparing CAMS. One of the first produced was for

the Loddon Catchment. This strategy identifies

licensing practices and highlights issues that require

resolution, and facilitates the identification of

changes that may be necessary to achieve

sustainability.

Hook Parish owns a section of the river floodplain

east of Holt Lane. Here they are creating a wide

buffer strip adjacent to the river. There is also

management of the adjacent grassland by cutting

twice a year.

Reforms to agri-environment grants will create

Environmental Stewardship Schemes that will

have entry and higher levels providing more

flexibility and choice for landowners wishing to

undertake management works to benefit wildlife.

The Water Framework Directive will be a

powerful tool in lobbying government agencies

and local authorities to create sustainable water

policies, to protect our water resources and the

habitats and species that depend on them.

The Forest of Eversley Project will work with

landowners and the public to raise awareness of

the importance of the River Valley and the

historical landscape.

LINKS TO HAMPSHIRE BAP

Topic Plans

Water and Biodiversity

Habitat Action Plans

Lowland wet grassland

Chalk streams

Standing open water

Fen, carr, marsh and reedbed

Species Action Plans

Book Lamprey

European otter

Water vole

Bechstein’s bat

Pipistrelle bat

Serotine bat

Birds of wet grassland

White-clawed crayfish

Bullhead

Stream water crowfoot

Locally Important Species

Kingfisher

Banded Demoiselle

T3:A13: Use management of Holt Lane site as a best

practice example and demonstration site for other

land owners. Publicise progress on management, use

on-site interpretation and hold guided site visits.

(HPC, FEP, HF, HWT) LT

LEAD PARTNERS

EA Environment Agency

FEP Forest of Eversley Project

HBIC Hampshire Biodiversity Information Centre

HBP Hampshire Biodiversity Partnership

HCC Hampshire County Council

HDC Hart District Council

HF Hook Focus

HOS Hampshire Ornithological Society

HPC Hook Parish Council

HPR Hook Parish Residents

HWT Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust

SpC Sparsholt College

WVPS Whitewater Valley Preservation Society



PROPOSED ACTIONS (Continued)

T1:A5: Ensure that there are policies within the

local plan to protect the quality of the River

Whitewater and its floodplain. (HDP, HPC,

WVPS, HWT) ST

T2:A6: Produce restoration and management plan

for Holt Lane proposal, seeking advice from

conservation advisers on best practice. (HPC,

HCC, HWT, FEP) MT

T2:A7: Ensure that future development proposals

for Hook Parish include an equal or greater benefit

for biodiversity by securing land for conservation

management and informal recreation adjacent to

the River Whitewater. Seek opportunities to

manage the right (east) bank and floodplain of the

river. (HDC, HPC, CW, WVPS) LT

T2:A8: Provide advice on habitat management to

landowners as well as information on the new

Environmental Stewardship Scheme. Aim to link

the floodplain of this section of the Whitewater to

the headwaters at Greywell. (HWT, FEP, EA) MT

T2:A9: Monitor impacts of management on

populations of priority species, e.g. water vole,

salmonids, lapwing and freshwater invertebrates.

(HWT, HOS, EA, SpC, HBIC) LT

T2:A10: Investigate potential for reconnecting the

rivers natural flood plain and water storage

capacity, to reduce flooding pressure on

developments further downstream. (EA) LT

T3:A11: Raise awareness of the importance of the

River Whitewater with local residents and

councillors though guided walks and talks. (FEP,

HPC, WVPS, EA) ST

T3:A12: Involve local residents, land owners and

river users in species surveys on the River

Whitewater. (EA, FEP, HPC, HPR, WVPS) MT

ST – Short Term, MT – Mid Term, LT – Long Term

(See section 6 for more information)

This plan focuses on the complex of habitats designated as SSSI. These are Bartley

Heath and Hook Common SSSI and Butter Wood SSSI, below South of Hook on the

border of Hook Parish. Whilst some of the site lies outside the parish boundary it is

sensible to consider this as one unit.

Despite being quartered by the M3 and A287, the surviving fragments of common land

in Hook Parish are nationally important for their wet heathland and ancient woodland

habitats and the rare species they support. At one time they would have formed the

southern edge of the Thames Basin Heaths, where the underlying soils change from

those of acid sands to calcareous chalk.

“Lowland heathland is one of the most valuable, yet severely threatened, wildlife

habitats in Europe. It is rare throughout the world. Delightful native wild species like

the marsh gentian, Dartford warbler, natterjack toad and silver studded blue butterfly

depend on it for survival. More than that, it has inspired great artists, musicians and

writers - people like Thomas Hardy - down the centuries. The UK holds about a fifth of

all the world's lowland heathland. Yet since 1800, more than 80% of this country's stock

has been lost. If the wildlife is to survive, and if we are to continue to draw enjoyment

and inspiration from it, then we must stem the loss of lowland heathland and start to re-

instate it.” (Tomorrow’s Heathland Heritage)

Ancient and semi-natural woodland is that which has been in existence since at least the

1600s. The habitat is important for the rich assemblages of ground flora, lichen, fern and

fungal communities it supports. An estimated 50% of woodland has been lost in

Hampshire over the last 50 years.

Historically the residents of Hook would have grazed their stock on the open common,

and used the woodland for fuel, timber and hazel coppice. Species would have benefited

from this low intensity management of the landscape. To maintain a diverse woodland

and heathland flora and fauna the right balance of management is required.

AREA

Bartley Heath and

Hook Common

SSSI: 122.2 ha

Butter Wood SSSI:

134.96ha

Total designation:

307.16ha

THE HEATHLAND

CURRENT STATUS

Bartley Heath is a registered common

that was designated as a SSSI in 1991. It

is owned and managed by Hampshire and

Isle of White Wildlife Trust.

Once regularly used by commoners, as

the practice of grazing died out, the

grasslands became ranker, and trees,

particularly Birch, began to dominate.

These trees shaded out the specialist

heathland plants with a subsequent

reduction of associated animals.

The site has been undergoing restoration

for the last ten years and with the

clearance of trees and grazing of New

Forest ponies, species are returning,

making it possible to walk once more

over an open landscape.

Of particular note on the site is a

population of marsh gentian. This is the

only site in Hampshire where it is found

outside of the New Forest.




Interestingly the species survived as a small colony

during the deterioration of the habitat, due to the

clearance under power lines by the electricity

company who needed access. Once grazing

management was reinstated the species is once

more flourishing across the heath.

Other species and features of interest are

sneezewort, ruddy darter, festoon moth, silver-

washed fritillary and tree pipit. The site supports a

diverse invertebrate fauna, including freshwater

species. A series of shallow gravel workings with a

wide variety of shade levels add to the diversity.

Another species of UK importance, recorded on

the heath in the 18th Century is Starfruit. This

species is found in muddy or gravel margins of

shallow ponds. It is very susceptible to local

extinction and is currently only recorded from

three counties. Whilst no plants have been found in

recent years, it may be that conditions will become

suitable again and there may be potential for

reintroduction to strengthen the UK population.

Hampshire Wildlife Trust have recently signed a

long term lease for the management of the adjacent

Hook Common site. Once restored, the two heaths

will be a nationally important habitat block. This

will benefit the species found there, by creating a

larger area that is more robust to local changes.

The site will also be a focus for informal recreation

in the north of Hampshire, and could be an

important draw for visitors to Hampshire.

Hook Common is currently a derelict heath

dominated by purple moor grass. The site became

invaded by secondary woodland and birch scrub

when grazing ceased after the war. A felling

licence has been granted to remove 19ha of the

species-poor woodland, staggered over the next

five years. This will create suitable conditions for

species such as nightjar and woodcock, and allow

heathland plant species such as creeping willow

and marsh gentian to return. A fringe of secondary

woodland will remain around the boundary of the

site to block out views of the main roads.

In order to maintain this habitat there is a need for

grazing, to prevent rank acid grassland developing

on the site. Ultimately this requires a sound local

grazing economy. In other words, a source of local

stock, lay-back land to graze animals in winter and

a market in which animals are sold at a sustainable

price for the grazier.

There are three main blocks of woodland, which

are worth considering for action in this plan. Bull’s

Bushes is a small neglected block of ancient and

semi-natural woodland. The structure of the under

storey suggests that it was once a worked hazel

coppice, however it is now too small in size to

make this a viable option. It would benefit from

management to open up the canopy and allow

some more light to the ground flora.

The second woodland block is North Butter Wood.

This refers to the section above the M3 which is

currently plantation. While this will have less

species richness than ancient and semi-natural

woodland, ride management could create pockets

of habitat for species such as water avens, bugle

and butterflies, such as purple emperor.

The remainder of Butter Wood is ancient

woodland, designated as a SSSI in 1986. The

variety of underlying soils means that it has an

interesting ground flora of heath species on the

north of the site. The southern section of Butter

Wood was historically managed as hazel and ash

coppice-with-oak-standards. This has allowed

species such as lesser celandine, wood sedge and

primrose to develop. Dead wood supports insects

including the black-headed cardinal beetle and

longhorn beetle Grammoptera ustulata.

A number of small ponds, though now largely

overgrown, are found within the wood. These are

presumed relic stock ponds, from a time when

cattle grazed the wood. They would benefit from

management, but require a full species survey

before decisions about management are made.





TARGETS

T1: To create an extensive heathland landscape of at least 350 hectares with a fringe of ancient and semi-

natural woodland.

T2: To monitor and maintain a diverse heathland flora and fauna in favourable condition.

T3: To raise awareness of the importance of heathland habitats with Hook Parish residents, local

companies, local authorities and to work in partnership with other conservation agencies to ensure

sustainability.

THREATS

Lack of management – Due to increased levels

of protection, few heathland or woodland sites

are being lost to development or changes in land

use, as they were in the past. The greatest threat

is a lack of appropriate management. On heaths

this can be over, or under grazing. In woodland a

lack of management such as coppicing will

degrade habitat quality. However, if the site is

too small, or there is a significant problem with

browsers such as deer, coppicing may be

inappropriate.

Fragmentation – Around Junction 5 of the M3

the habitats have already been cut up into

separate blocks, preventing species dispersal

from one area to the next. It may be that

innovative ideas will be needed in the future,

such as tunnels or wildlife bridges to re-connect

these blocks.

Public perception – Communication is essential

to ensure that management practices are

explained to local users of sites before works

begin. The need for fencing and tree removal can

often be contentious issues which require

diplomacy and understanding.

Socio-economics – Unless there is a sustainable

market in place for local produce from grazing or

coppice goods, there cannot be sustainable

management of sites. In the case of grazing, this

includes suitable lay-back land for stock when

they are not required on site, and graziers to

ensure animal health and safety.

CURRENT ACTION

The Thames Basin Heaths are being considered

in Europe for designation as a Special Protection

Area. Whilst this site is outside the boundary

under consideration, it was historically part of

the same heathland block. An increase in

conservation initiatives in this area may be

beneficial in securing the long term future of

Bartley Heath and Hook Common.

Also, at a European level are the proposals for

the changes in the Common Agricultural Policy.

In the UK it is hoped that there will be increased

opportunities for landowners to diversify and

manage their land for wildlife. This could be

beneficial in restoring land adjacent to the

designated sites and in providing lay-back land

for conservation grazing stock.

At a local level Hampshire County Council has a

number of projects focussing on the need for a

sustainable economy to support traditional

management practices. These include the

Hampshire Grazing Project, Hampshire

Heathlands Project and the Woodlands Officer.

The Forest of Eversley Project will raise

awareness of the management of habitats in this

area with local residents, and promote this

landscape to a wider audience.

Hampshire Wildlife Trust will continue to

restore its own land, and work with adjacent

landowners to explore opportunities for

managing land to benefit wildlife on a landscape

scale.



Heathland, Acid Grassland and Bog

Ancient and Semi-natural Woodland


Marsh gentian

Starfruit

Dormouse


Adder

Ruddy Darter

Grass Snake

Dwarf Willow

LEAD PARTNERS

BC Butterfly Conservation

FC Forestry Commission


HARG Hampshire Amphibian and Reptile Group





HF Hook Focus




HS Robert Mays School


PL Plant Life



PROPOSED ACTIONS

T1: A1: Maintain Bartley Heath in favourable

condition through grazing and keep silver birch

under control through cutting. (EN, HWT) LT

T1A2: Continue staggered removal of secondary

woodland from Hook Common, over the next five

years. (HWT, FC) MT

T1A3: Reinstate grazing on Hook Common. To

ensure the long term sustainable management of

the site. (HWT) MT

T1:A4: Undertake some management work within

Bull’s Bushes to open up canopy and increase light

to ground flora. (HWT, HCC) MT

T1:A5: Explore potential for coppicing within

Butter Wood with support from the land owner.

(HCC) LT

T1:A6: Explore potential for ride management

with plantation woodland for flora and fauna.

(HCC, BC, FC) LT

T2:A7: Continue to monitor flora and fauna on

Bartley Heath to determine impacts of

management. (HWT, BC, HARG, HOS, HBIC)

LT

T2:A8: Undertake survey of ponds within Butter

Wood, assess species and undertake restoration

with landowners’ support. (HWT, HBIC) ST

T2:A9: Undertake assessment of habitat status for

starfruit. Explore potential for re-introductions.

(PL, HWT) LT

T3:10: Continue to lobby for reforms in agri-

environment schemes to benefit wildlife. (HCC,

HBP, HWT) ST

T3:11: Continue with an inclusive and transparent

consultation with local residents on the

management of Hook Common and Bartley Heath

(HPC, HPR, HWT) ST

T3:A12: Use the Forest of Eversley project to

raise awareness of these sites with local residents

and local authorities. (FEP, HS) ST

T3:A13: Use access and interpretation on these

heathland sites to raise awareness of the wider

issues that surround heathlands in the Thames

Basin area, as well as allowing informal recreation

for visitors. (HWT, FEP) ST



AREA

Ancient Semi-

natural woodland:

228.1ha

ANCIENT WOODLANDS

CURRENT STATUS

than 30ha, including bluebell, yellow

archangel and Solomon’s seal.

The small streams which flow through

the woods add diversity, and have a

rich ground flora including species

such as goldilocks buttercup and

hartstongue fern, under an alder, ash

and maple canopy. These wet

woodlands are also important for their

invertebrates. The ditches themselves

are also used as breeding sites by

amphibians.

Ponds within this area have the

potential for restoration and would be

beneficial for great crested newt,

dragonfly and other invertebrate

species.

The first block to be considered is Hook

Woodlands which includes College

Copse, Hill Copse, North Runten’s

Copse, Shirlen’s Copse, Great

Nightingale’s Copse, Twelve Acre Copse

and Little Nightingale’s Copse. All of

these have been designated as SINCs.

Although some of these woods are

outside the Parish Boundary, they will be

considered together.

Individually, and more so when

considered together, these woodlands

have a rich diversity. They are

predominantly neglected hazel coppice

with oak standards and ash woodlands

interspersed with wood grasslands along

paths.

The ground flora when combined across

all the copses has a species list of 148, 51

of which are AWIS, in an area of less

Woodlands and ancient trees are an integral part of the character of the Hampshire

landscape, and the Parish of Hook is no exception. This plan looks at the fragments

of woodland to the north of Hook Parish which at one time would have formed part

of an extensive woodland block.

A well managed woodland supports a great diversity of species, the oldest woods

holding the greatest number of Ancient Woodland Indicator Species (AWIS).

Woodlands also have significant historic value and can provide important

opportunities for managed public access.

The Forestry Commission’s vision is for:

“A great variety of well-managed woodlands. These will include woodlands for

timber production to strengthen local economies; woodlands for economic

regeneration to re-clothe industrial dereliction; woodlands for access and

recreation; and woodlands for biodiversity to enhance our environment. Linking all

of these together are benefits for society – in social, environmental and economic

terms” (Elliot Morley, 1999)




Some areas of the woods and some copses have

been clear felled e.g. North Runten’s Copse, and

in some cases planted with non-native species,

such as Sycamore and Sweet Chestnut.

There is public access to some of the woods, and

it would be fair to say that these are now

suburban woods, which face the problems of

litter and vandalism, although there is little sign

of this yet. A greater problem is the network of

random footpaths which are developing through

the woods. Interpretation and visitor

management is required to protect the flora of

the site.

Other copses such as Little Nightingale Copse

have little access, but also little management,

which will in time reduce floristic diversity,

because of the lack of light reaching to ground

level.

The block is further enhanced by Owen’s Farm

Meadow, which is species rich grassland SINC,

adjoining Hill Copse and College Copse.

An example of a species rich hedgerow can be

found in the area of South Runten’s Copse. Here

they represent remnants of ancient woodland,

and could form an important corridor for species

between woodland blocks.

The second block of woodland is in the north

east of the Parish. Dogtail’s Copse and Borough

Court Copse are also designated as SINC,

because of the assemblage of ancient woodland

indicator species.

However, both of these woodlands are isolated

and relatively small in size: 12ha and 4ha

respectively. A well managed hedgerow network

in this area would increase the area of potential

habitat for species colonisation.



THREATS

Development – Loss of habitat as a result of

development is a significant threat to

biodiversity. This is compounded further by the

increased pressure on the remaining habitats. In

particular, disturbance from residents seeking

informal recreation.

When this access is unmanaged, multiple paths

will be created within the woodland. These paths

will widen over time as they become muddy and

people step around the worst areas to get through.

Woodland flora is delicate and cannot survive

under high levels of trampling.

Another threat comes from the accidental and

deliberate release of alien plants from gardens,

e.g. Rhododendron. These species are often

aggressive in their growth and can change the

composition and character of woodland, to one

which is less diverse.

The domestic cat can also impact adversely on

adjacent habitats because of the threat they pose

to feeding birds and young fledglings. Putting a

bell on a collar or keeping cats indoors first thing

in the morning can help to reduce this threat

Fragmentation – With changes in land use, there

has been a steady reduction in the size of

habitats. There have also been increasing

distances between habitats and the creation of

barriers such as roads to species dispersal. These

isolated habitats are less sustainable and species

populations can become isolated and unable to

maintain a breeding population.

Lack of management – In woodlands, traditional

management practices such as coppicing have

died out, due to a decline in the market for locally

sourced woodland products. This is leading to

neglect and an overall loss in biodiversity.

Deer can also prevent the re-generation of

coppice within recently managed woods.

Measures need to be taken to keep them away

from recently coppiced stools.



TARGETS

T1: Restore Hook Woodlands following a plan of management which treats the SINC network as one

habitat block, ensuring connectivity between woodland copses.

T2: Increase biodiversity value of woodlands in the east of Hook Parish by enhancing the hedgerow

network.

T3: Create a sustainable market for timber and coppice, produced in the management of woodlands to

benefit biodiversity.

T4: Raise awareness of the biodiversity of Hook Parish outside of the urban centre, with local

residents, landowners and planning authorities.

CURRENT ACTION

The Woodland Grant Scheme is a scheme

offered by the Forestry Commission and can

help with costs of tree felling, removal of non-

native trees, capital works and deer fencing.

SINC status has been given to all ancient and

semi-natural woodlands over 2ha in size in

Hook Parish. There is also the potential to

designate any grasslands that meet the criteria.

SINCs are recognised in Hart Local Plan and

there is a presumption against development.

However, development may occur up to the

boundary of these sites, which can be

detrimental to their quality. Particularly if the

hydrology of the site is affected by drainage,

urban run-off, or cable and pipe laying. There is

also no guarantee that SINCs will be managed

to maintain their quality.

The SINC Officer at Hampshire County Council

is working with land owner advisors such as the

Woodland Officer, Forest of Eversley Project

Officer and the Farming and Wildlife Advisory

Group (FWAG) to provide support and advice

for land owners, to maintain the quality of

protected sites and the land adjacent to these

sites.

The Woodland Forum is a partnership of

organisations and individuals involved in the

management of woodlands, including the

Woodland Trust, Forestry Commission and

Hampshire Woodland Officer.

They are lobbying for the creation of a

sustainable market for woodland products. The

intention being that this should become a

sustainable form of management, with timber

being used locally for construction, and coppice

products used in gardens and traditional cottage

crafts.

The Forest of Eversley Project aims to promote

the value of the historical landscapes within the

north east of Hampshire. The project includes

guided walks and talks, liaison with landowners

and the local authorities and local surveys, to

assess the status of priority species.

Hart District Local Plan has policies on the

protection of designated sites, areas of high

biodiversity value and priority species. There is

a need for comprehensive surveys before

permission is granted for any development.



Ancient and Semi-natural Woodland

Hedgerows


Dormouse

Pipistrelle bat

Yellow necked mouse

Purple Emperor

Silver-washed fritillary


Bluebell

Bullfinch

Grass snake

LEAD PARTNERS

FC Forestry Commission


FWAG Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group


HBG Hampshire Bat Group





HF Hook Focus




WF Woodland Forum




PROPOSED ACTIONS

T1:A1: Provide advice to land owners on

management techniques to maintain and restore

the biodiversity of Hook Woodlands, including

grant aid schemes. (FC, FEP, HCC, FEP) MT

T1:A2: Put in place interpretation and way

markers to reduce the negative impacts of visitors

to the woodlands, whilst creating a pleasant

environment for informal recreation. (FC, FEP)

MT

T1:A3: Explore potential for restoration of ponds

within woodland. Conduct a survey for great

crested newt. (HARG, HWT) ST

T1:A4: Monitor the status of priority species and

SINC process by undertaking a rolling programme

of survey. (HBIC) LT

T2:A5: Provide advice on the management of

hedgerows to maintain and enhance biodiversity,

especially where this is between existing woodland

blocks. (HWT, CPRE, FWAG, FEP) MT

T3:A6: Lobby for the creation of a sustainable

market for woodland timber and coppice products.

Raise awareness of the potential for people and

contractors to source wood locally in order to

support this market. (HCC, WF, FEP) LT

T3:A7: Raise awareness of the problem of deer

grazing in woodland. Provide advice to woodland

managers on the methods available to control deer

and protect newly established coppice. (HCC, WF,

FEP) MT

T4:A8: Publicise the importance of the

biodiversity of Hook Parish in all available media.

Ensure that local plans take account of this

biodiversity and contain measures to protect and

enhance this resource. (FEP, HDC, HPC, HPR,

CW, HBP, HF, HWT) ST

T4:A9: Conduct a survey for bat species to

identify roosting and maternity sites within the

woodlands. Determine where important foraging

sites are to support these populations within the

floodplain and consider sites for designation as

SINC. (HBP, HBIC, HWT) MT



AREA

Built: 178.9ha

Green space: 28.0ha

THE URBAN ENVIRONMENT

CURRENT STATUS

Green space within the urban area is a

significant resource for wildlife and can

be categorised into private gardens,

school playing fields, formal open spaces

and fragments of original habitat left

behind after development, such as

Ashwell’s Copse. The road verges and

railway embankment may also support

remnant species from the former habitats.

Some plants and animals have adapted to

become associated with the urban

habitats of Hook Parish, such as swift and

house martin. Other species are able to

utilise urban habitats when their natural

habitat is diminished, such as song

thrush, great crested newt, slow worm,

stag beetle and bats.

Green space should be managed

sustainably to enhance biodiversity

within urban areas.

Hook Parish has a population of

approximately 9,000, with a marked

distinction between the urban and rural

environment. The village of Hook to the

South West forms the hub of

development in the parish. This is mostly

medium density residential with some

light and high tech industries.

The A30, and the Southampton to

London railway line dissect the parish

and the M3 forms the southern boundary.

This means that Hook is an ideal location

for commuters, adding pressure on the

road and rail infrastructure and increasing

the demand for housing.

To the east of Holt Lane, a Section 106

agreement, attached to development, has

secured 10 ha of land adjacent to the

River. This is owned by the Parish and is

being managed for biodiversity.

Over 20% of Hook Parish is urban. We spend most of our time living and working in

the urban setting and it therefore follows that a loss of biodiversity here will have a big

impact on our quality of life. The increasing extent and density of development, as a

result of our needs for living space, will have a major impact on biodiversity and

natural resources. We are obviously the root cause of this problem, but we can also

become part of the solution, if we adhere to the principles of sustainable development.

Gardens and parks cover a far greater area than if all sites designated for wildlife were

combined. There is scope to make these areas hospitable to our native species, and to

provide education opportunities for tomorrow’s generation.

“Parks and private gardens can be important for wildlife and are the main day to day

contact points with wildlife for most of the population. Given the right conditions,

wildlife can thrive in towns. This can help to raise awareness for the natural world

and a concern for its conservation.” (UK Biodiversity Steering Group, 1994)

This plan considers the area within Hook Parish where there are concentrations of

people living and working, and the infrastructure and open space on which they

depend. There is a matrix of both built and semi-natural habitat within the urban

environment.



FORMAL OPEN

SPACE

Cemetery Gardens

Hartletts Park

Elizabeth Hall Park

Bowling Green and

surrounds

Wellworths Park

THREATS

Isolation – Urban green spaces are, by nature of

the development surrounding them, fragmented.

This makes them vulnerable to isolation, which

can lead to local species extinctions. They are also

small in size and can therefore suffer from

damaging external influences such as pollution

and spread of non-native garden plants.

Disturbance – In areas with a lack of public open

space within the urban environment, residents

often congregate on the same small sites. This can

cause undue pressure on the most sensitive sites.

Dogs and cats can also have a detrimental impact

on the local wildlife.

Pollution – Air pollution and road run-off

particularly around the M3 are harmful to plants

and animals. Roads are also the major cause of

death to mammals and birds. Light and noise

pollution have also been shown to cause stress to

wildlife.

Future developments – Unprotected land will

always be under pressure from future

development. Plans must include adequate open

space within new developments. Where there is

little brown field land, there will be increased

pressure for expansion outwards. Clear policies

are needed within the local plan to guide the

forward planning process.

Lack of data – Valuable habitat may be lost if

there is a lack of information of the species

utilising a site.

Site management - A “tidy” site may be a habitat

desert for wildlife. An unmanaged site may also

become unsuitable for the species which depend

on a certain management regime.

Involvement – Many people do not realise how

beneficial a small change in their behaviour can be

to the UK’s biodiversity. Recycling, composting,

saving energy and water, having a small patch of

wildlife garden or supporting local conservation

initiatives can make a difference.

CURRENT ACTION

Control of development to protect our

environment is achieved though legislation such as

the Town and Country Planning Act, Regional

Spatial Strategies (RSS) and Planning Policy

Guidance notes (PPG3 and PPG9).

PPG9 considers protection of designated sites but

also gives due regard for protected species and

areas of wildlife interest outside of designated

sites.

Regional Planning Guidance for the South East

(RPG9) states that there should be “economic

success throughout the region, ensuring a higher

quality environment and management of natural

resources”. RSS should cross-refer to rather than

repeat other regional strategies to achieve

sustainable development in the SE Region.

Both the above must be taken into account in the

review of Local Plans and may be material to

decisions on individual planning applications and

appeals.

Hart Local Plan guides development to protect

designated sites and has powers to enter into legal

agreements with the developers. Groups with local

knowledge, such as the Whitewater Valley

Preservation Society exist to lobby local

authorities to remind them of these powers and

responsibilities.

The Forest of Eversley partnership project will

contribute to sustainability through public

involvement and understanding of biodiversity.

Species surveys have been conducted in urban

areas, e.g. stag beetle, song thrush, bats and moth

traps in gardens, but more survey is needed.

Local wildlife initiatives are available to residents

in Hook Parish such as the Tree Warden Scheme,

Pond Warden Scheme, Wildlife Watch Group and

the Gardening for Wildlife Campaign.



PROPOSED ACTIONS

T1:A5: Promote biodiversity principles and

targets to councillors and officers through

informal seminars. (HDC, HF, HPC, FEP) ST

T1:A6: Provide information on the availability

of grants for local groups wishing to undertake

works for biodiversity which will benefit the

community. (HDC, HBP) MT

T2.A7: Encourage Hook Parish Community,

including individuals, schools and community

groups to enhance biodiversity through

promotion of Gardening for Wildlife. (HPC,

HCofC, HF, HPR) ST

• Create demonstration gardens.

• Plant a wildflower border.

• Build a pond.

• Provide nest sites, food and water for

birds

• Source native plants from garden centres.

• Don’t use peat based compost.

• Hold a Hook Parish in Wildlife in Bloom

event.

• Control pets.



TARGETS

T1: Educate and raise awareness of the importance of biodiversity to all sectors of the Hook Parish

community.

T2: Encourage individuals, community groups and local businesses to take action to conserve our natural

resources and take responsibility for biodiversity.

T3: Lobby policy makers to ensure that the protection and enhancement of biodiversity is an integral part of

the forward planning process.

T4: Ensure that the biodiversity of Hook Parish is recognised as an indicator of the state of our health, the

health of the environment and therefore a measure of Quality of Life.

T1:A1: Raise awareness of biodiversity. LT

• Through publicity and a launch of the

Local Biodiversity Action Plan for Hook

Parish. (HPC, HBP)

• Through school projects and initiatives

such as the Wildlife Watch Group. (SLP,

HWT)

• Hold guided walks and talks on local

wildlife sites to engage people with the

wildlife on their doorsteps. (FEP)

T1:A2: Promote schemes which people can

become involved in such as Pond Wardens, Tree

Wardens and Local Wildlife Recording Groups.

(BTCV, HDC, HF, HWT) ST

T1:A3: Ensure that all data collected from

projects and surveys, are incorporated in the

Hampshire Biodiversity Information Centre.

(HOS, HBIC, HWT) MT

T1: A4: Promote conservation organisations

working to enhance biodiversity in the Parish

e.g. Hampshire Biodiversity Partnership, Forest

of Eversley Project and Hampshire and Isle of

Wight Wildlife Trust. (HBP, FEP, HWT) ST


Topic Plans

Education, Awareness Involvement

Urban Areas


Ancient and Semi-Natural Woodland

Standing Open Water


Pipistrelle bat

Stag beetle

Great crested newt

Song thrush


Frog

Hedgehog

House sparrow

Peacock butterfly

Slow worm

LEAD PARTNERS

BTCV British Trust for Conservation Volunteers





HCofC Hart Chamber of Commerce


HF Hook Focus




HWT Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife

Trust

SLP Schools Landscape Project




PROPOSED ACTIONS (Continued)

T2.A8: Raise awareness of the need for

sustainability in the home and in the office

environment, to save resources which will

ultimately impact on biodiversity. (HCofC,

HDC, HBP) MT

• Save energy and water.

• Recycle and compost waste.

• Take fewer journeys by car and offer to car

share.

• Promote and publish examples of businesses,

which are supporting biodiversity.

T3:A9: Hart Local Plan review must include

adequate policies and guidance for the protection

of biodiversity. (HDC, HPC, HPR, WVPS) ST

• Sites designated for nature conservation, SSSIs.

• Non-designated sites of conservation value,

SINCs.

• Key species and habitats in urban areas.

T3:A10: Where development is proposed there

should be equal or greater gains for biodiversity.

(HDC) LT

T3:A11: All local authorities should have in-house

biodiversity, species and habitats expertise.

(HDC) MT

T4:A12: Ensure that new developments

incorporate the principles of sustainability by

providing green space, wildlife corridors and

buffering sensitive habitats. (HDC, HPC) ST

T4:A13: Ensure that there is natural green space no

more than 300m from each dwelling, with

managed access. (HDC) MT

T4:A14: Ensure that land managers within Hook

Parish e.g. Local Authorities and Highways

Agency have management plans and strategies in

place which recognise the biodiversity value of

sites such as playing fields, road verges and street

trees. (HDC, HBP, HPC) LT



AREA

Ponds: 1ha

PONDS

CURRENT STATUS

Ponds in and around Hook have long

been known to support an exceptionally

rich and diverse wildlife interest. Ponds

are a habitat vital to the survival of

many of our native plants and wild

creatures.

In Hook Parish, ponds have been known

to support the nationally rare and

threatened wild flower, Starfruit and

also the Great crested newt

In Hook Parish ten ponds have been

mapped by the Hampshire Biodiversity

Information Centre (HBIC).

This does not account for all the ponds in

the Parish. In the first instance it omits all

garden ponds which can be a huge

resource for wildlife, particularly as

ponds in the wider countryside have

declined.

Garden ponds in the centre of Hook have

records of Great crested newt. It seems

likely that they are able to travel from

ponds in the surrounding woodlands and

farmland along habitat corridors such as

hedgerows, to use this resource. The

more ponds available to species, such as

newt, the stronger the population.

Ponds are high profile freshwater habitats of interest to the general public and the

scientific community. For the purpose of this plan, ponds are defined as man-made

or natural water bodies between 1m2 and 2ha in area, which hold water for 4 months

of the year or more.

The Habitats and Species Directive, 1992 identifies the need to promote

conservation features that might act as corridors to promote species movement

through the countryside. Article 10 of the Directive identifies ponds as one of these

features.

“ponds are essential for the migration, dispersal and genetic exchange of wide

(ranging) species.” (English Nature, 1995)

Nationally about two thirds of all Britain’s freshwater plants, and an estimated 400

species, can be found somewhere in ponds. 150 of the 280 wetland invertebrates

listed in the Red Data Book for Invertebrates occur in ponds. There are also many

mammals listed in the Hampshire Biodiversity Action Plan, which are associated

with ponds, including Daubenton’s bat.

There are approximately 228,900 ponds in lowland Britain, in the wider countryside,

i.e. those outside of private gardens. This resource has declined by 75% in the last

100 years. Between 1990 and 1996, 17,000 (approximately 3,900) ponds were lost

and only 15,000 (approximately 6,400) were made. There is evidence that a large

majority of the remaining ponds are degraded.

In Hampshire there are believed to be over 1,000 ponds in the wider countryside,

which can be classified as wildlife ponds. The majority of these were man made at

some point in the past, to provide water for livestock, as decoy ponds, as abandoned

clay pits or as restored gravel pits.




HBIC has also not mapped recently created ponds.

An example of this is a pond on land adjacent to

Carleton Close and Newnham Road.

In 2000 Hampshire Wildlife Trust were asked by

the Hook 2000 Group to provide advice on the

creation of this pond. A suggested programme of

works was provided and given to the Hook 2000

Group to implement. This included the digging of

test pits in order to check the substrate, to

determine if the pond would hold water. Post pond

creation works included the monitoring of

vegetation and animal life in the pond, and

establishing a coppice rotation of willows to the

west of the pond area.

Hook Parish who had taken over responsibility of

the pond from the Hook 2000 Group approached

the Wildlife Trust in 2004, over concerns that the

pond was drying out and very overgrown.

A conservation officer from the Trust visited the

pond and found that, although it had no water in it,

fools water-cress and other aquatic vegetation

were thriving in the soft mud and the surrounding

vegetation had been recently cut. There were

problems with dumping of garden waste.

It is a common misconception that in order to be

of value, a pond should maintain a constant water

level. In fact, many ponds are seasonal and dry out

in summer. As a consequence they develop a plant

and animal community that has adapted to these

particular conditions. For example, Starfruit,

which thrives in the muddy edges of ponds with

fluctuating water levels.

For this reason, the pond at Newnham Road, Hook

is a valuable habitat in its own right and should be

maintained as such.

Outside of the urban area there are a number of

other ponds which are important for the

biodiversity of Hook Parish. These include the

large ponds within the floodplain between the M3

and railway line.



These fishing lakes could provide important

breeding grounds for species such as toad and

waterfowl which are tolerant of fish, and can co-

exist alongside them. The habitat is further

enhanced by the presence of an island in the centre

of one lake, which allows nesting sites in the

absence of predators. An area of reed managed in

one area of the lake would further increase

diversity.

Ponds within Hook Woods have the potential for

restoration and could be important for amphibians,

dragonflies and other invertebrate species,

particularly those which are tolerant of some

shading.

Ponds within Butter Wood, which at one time

would have provided water for grazing stock,

appear to have high existing biodiversity, although

they may be slightly over-shaded. They would

benefit from management, but require a full

survey before work commences.

THREATS

Changes in land-use – Agricultural techniques

have advanced, resulting in a reduced need for

ponds in the landscape as stock drinking holes.

They are also often filled in, to improve the

efficiency of farm machinery around fields.

There has also been a reduction in ponds within or

close to urban developments as they often have no

conservation designation, and are filled in to allow

development to continue. Once developments

have been allowed, they or their access roads often

limit dispersal of species from one pond to

another, which is essential for species such as

newt, toad and grass snake.

Succession – Ponds are transient habitats. As their

basins accumulate sediment, they gradually fill in.

In ponds over-shaded by riparian trees, a lack of

aquatic growth leads to poor oxygenation and

general deterioration. However, a degree of

shading can provide an important habitat for some

species.



TARGETS

T1: Make the public aware of the importance of garden ponds as a resource for wildlife, and the

damaging affect that invasive alien plants can have on native aquatic habitats.

T2: Maintain the pond at Newnham Road, Hook, as a temporary pond (one that holds water for more

than four months of the year, but which can be dry at other time).

T3: Protect and enhance ponds in the wider countryside (outside of the urban area) from drainage and

succession.

T4: Monitor the status and distribution of ponds in Hook Parish. Identify ponds with high biodiversity

value and designate as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) as appropriate.

THREATS (Continued)

Invasive alien species – Many ornamental pond

plants sold in garden centres can be aggressive in

their growth and suppress native pond plants. In

garden ponds this is not so much of a risk, but

should they accidentally escape into the wild they

can have a devastating effect.

Water abstraction –Many ponds dry out naturally

during the summer months. This can be adversely

compounded by abstraction which artificially

reduces the water table. If ponds are permanently

dry then the aquatic flora and fauna will be lost.

Failure to consider surrounding habitats – Many

species, especially amphibians and reptiles,

require moist, shady vegetation and grasslands,

woodlands or hedgerows adjacent to ponds to

forage for food and to hibernate. Therefore,

treating the pond habitat in isolation can have a

detrimental impact on these species.

Lack of understanding – People may not realise

the value of ponds in the landscape and therefore

view them as less of a priority than some other

habitats. It is vital to conduct surveys of ponds to

determine their use by toads, newts, retiles and

bats, as this can determine the best type of

management to implement.

CURRENT ACTION

The Forest of Eversley Project will work with

landowners and the public to raise awareness of

the importance of natural habitats such as ponds

and their associated flora and fauna. The Forest of

Eversley Officer can offer advice on the

management of ponds on publicly owned land and

those in the wider countryside.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust are

running a successful Gardening for Wildlife

campaign. Leaflets and fact sheets are available

from the Trust on a variety of garden projects

from creating a wildlife pond to peat free

gardening.

The British Trust for Conservation Volunteers

(BTCV) organise a series of Pond Warden

Schemes throughout the County. They can provide

training for local residence to become Pond

Wardens, who are then able to assess the

distribution and status of ponds in a local area.

Hampshire Amphibian and Reptile Group

(HARG) hold the County Recorder and conduct

county surveys for amphibians and reptiles. They

can offer expert advice and information on the

management and protection of native amphibians

and reptiles.



Standing Open Water

Ephemeral Ponds


Water vole

Great crested newt

Downy emerald

Keeled skimmer


Common Frog

Common Toad

Grass snake

LEAD PARTNERS

BTCV British Trust for Conservation Volunteers








HF Hook Focus






PROPOSED ACTIONS

T1:A1: Raise awareness of the importance of

ponds in Hook Parish though a guided walk/talk.

Aim to appoint a Pond Warden from local

residence to monitor the status of ponds in the

Parish. (HWT, FEP, BTCV, HPR, HF, HPC) ST

T1:A2: Promote the importance of garden ponds,

and wildlife gardening in general, to help off-set

the declines observed in the wider countryside.

(HWT, HPR, HPC, HF) MT

T1:A3: Raise awareness of the disastrous

consequences of introducing alien species from

gardens into the wider countryside. Involve local

garden centres in dissemination of this

information. (HF, HPC, HPR, HWT, BTCV) ST

T2:A4: Produce a management plan for Newnham

Road Pond, including community involvement and

ownership. (HPC, HPR, FEP, BTCV) LT

T2:A5: Provide some form of interpretation to

raise public awareness of the value of the pond and

the fact that it is being managed. This may help to

tackle the garden waste issue. (HPC, FEP) ST

T2:A6: Monitor water levels in order to provide a

better understanding of the seasonal nature of

ponds. (HPC, HPR) MT

T2:A7: Maintain a range of habitat in the

surrounding vegetation, including long and short

grassland and coppice. (HPC, HPR) MT

T3:A8: Offer advice to land owners with ponds in

the farmed landscape. Determine if biodiversity

enhancement measures can be incorporated within

day-to-day working practise. (FEP, HARG) LT

T3:A9: Conduct full survey, and produce

management/restoration plan for ponds in Hook

Woods. (FEP, HARG, HBIC) MT

T3:A10: Conduct full survey, and produce

management/restoration plan for ponds in Butter

Wood. (FEP, HARG, HBIC) MT

T4:A11: Maintain a survey programme to assess

the distribution and status of ponds in Hook Parish.

Conduct specific species surveys for great crested

newt, and priority BAP species such as

Daubenton’s bat and Starfruit to identify ponds

that meet SINC criteria. Highlight these ponds in

Hart District Local Plan. (HCC, HBP, HBIC,

HARG, HDC, HPC, HPR, BTCV) MT



AREA

Length of species

rich hedgerow:

Unknown

Farmed land:

376.6ha

FARMLAND BIODIVERSITY

CURRENT STATUS

There are four farmland areas within

Hook Parish which have the potential to

most beneficial for biodiversity, and

which, if managed sensitively, could

help to maintain the sustainability of

other core areas for biodiversity.

The first of these is Owen’s Farm

Meadow, which is species rich grassland

SINC, adjoining Hill Copse. This site is

also mentioned in the Ancient

Woodland Booklet (3 of 6).

This area is further enhanced by the

presence of species rich hedgerows, on

average containing 5.4 woody species

every 30m. Using Hooper’s Law*, as a

rough guide to dating hedges, it would

suggest that hedges in this area could

be over 500 years old.

Species rich hedgerows in this area

should be considered for SINC

designation to enhance and maintain

the woodland block in this area.

The valley sides, which are predominantly improved grassland and arable,

interspersed with hedgerows, are an integral part of the Hook environment and are

essential features for sustainable biodiversity of the River Whitewater, the Heathland

and Hook Woods.

The farmland, grasslands and hedgerows are the connection between these three

important ecosystems, enabling mobile species to move seasonally, to avoid

isolation and to feed and find a mate. Species such as buzzard, hare and bats need an

extensive area to maintain a sustainable population.

Grants are available to increase farmland biodiversity, by implementing measures

such as grass margins, beetle banks, conservation headlands, ponds and spring-sown

crops and winter stubbles. However, small changes in the management of farmed

land can also have great benefits for wildlife, for example planting farmland bird

seed mixes in set-aside and managing hedgerows at certain times of year.

Hedgerows are an important for wildlife habitat in their own right, and as wildlife

super highways, connecting otherwise isolated habitats. They can be remnants of

former woodlands, or a Parish boundary or medieval field, which were often

delineated by hedgerows. Remnants of ancient hedgerows are also present within the

urban area of Hook. If managed well, hedges and their associated headlands can

greatly enhance farmland biodiversity.

“Today’s countryside has been shaped and maintained largely by farming.

Agriculture is a key determinant, and is the most significant potential deliverer, of

Biodiversity in England.” (Working With the Grain of Nature, 2002)



*Hooper’s Law states that the number of woody species within a hedge x100 can be used as a guide to the

overall age of the hedge. Assuming that hedges will become more diverse with age. However, this rule is

obviously flawed in the case of planted hedges and where management has affected the diversity of a

hedge. The type and therefore diversity of a hedge is also dependent on other factors such as soil type.


The second, key farmland biodiversity area lies

between the A30 and tributary of the River

Whitewater. Here provisional hedgerow surveys

show that they contain between 4.5 and 6 species

per 30m section, suggesting they may be over 600

years old.

This area is particularly important because of the

connections it provides between the valley floor

and the woodlands, allowing species such as

pipistrelle bat to move from their roosting to their

feeding sites.

Records of Great crested newt from within Hook,

presents the possibility that this species may be

using the hedgerows within this area, to move to

other ponds, thereby creating a stronger

population. Further survey is required.

The open arable and improved grassland within

this area is also important. Species such as

buzzard and brown hare, as well as many farmland

bird species, e.g. yellowhammer and grey

partridge, have adapted to this habitat type over

the centuries and are now dependent on a low

intensity farming system.

Simple measures can be taken to enhance this

habitat for biodiversity. For example, creating a 2-

6m grass margin around the base of hedges, will

increase habitat for mammals such as field vole

and in turn food for birds such as barn owl.

Another example of a species rich hedgerow can

be found in the area of South Runten’s Copse.

Here they represent the remnants of the ancient

woodland, and could form an important corridor

for species between woodland blocks.

The final key area for farmland biodiversity are

some aircraft fields just north of the M3, which

have the potential to be botanically interesting.

They have not been dressed with fertilisers for a

long time and on first impressions, seem to be a

semi-improved meadow. They require survey and

may be of SINC quality.



THREATS

Development – Significant pressure from the

lateral extension of Hook, the M3 and the

railway will further restrict or segregate land

available to wildlife. In addition there may be

more pressure from human disturbance during

daylight hours.

Fragmentation –Development and increases in

agricultural intensification mean that already

fragmented habitats are under increasing

pressure. Hedgerows and field margins are

important in providing a link between these

habitats, and as habitats within the landscape,

where semi-natural habitat has been lost.

Lack of management – Whilst most hedgerows

are now protected by legislation, many are losing

biodiversity value due to inappropriate

management, such as flailing. At the wrong time

of year this can be very damaging to flowering

woody species, small mammals and nesting

birds.

Agricultural intensification – The intensification

of agriculture that has occurred in the last 50

years has reached a peak. This has caused

declines in many farmland species. This has been

coupled with a change in the timing of crops.

Spring sown crops provide a better habitat and

food source for breeding bird species. A lack of

winter stubbles has also been one of the major

causes in the declines of many farmland birds.

As farmers seek to diversify there are new

opportunities for wildlife management,

especially under the new Environmental

Stewardship Scheme.

Agro-chemicals – applications of herbicides and

fertilisers have caused declines in many of the

more sensitive arable flora. This has had the

knock-on effect of reducing abundance of non-

target invertebrates, and so on, up the food chain.

Another impact of chemicals is spray drift into

the base of hedges, reducing diversity and

therefore reducing the amount of good quality

habitat.



TARGETS

T1: Ensure that there is up-to-date information on the distribution and status of hedgerows within Hook

Parish.

T2: Provide land managers with advice on hedgerow management, to enhance the existing hedgerow

network and to link existing habitat blocks.

T3: Enhance farmland biodiversity in Hook Parish, through provision of management advice and

information on agri-environment schemes. Establish a baseline of information on the distribution and

status of species and habitats. Designate important sites for farmland biodiversity.

T4: Raise awareness of the importance of farmland biodiversity.

CURRENT ACTION

The Countryside Stewardship Scheme, offers

payments for a variety of conservation works over

a number of years, and will soon be superseded by

the new Environmental Stewardship Scheme. As

part of this there are two tiers of payment, the

Entry Level Scheme (ELS) and Higher Tier

Scheme (HTS). The ELS will give payments for

environmental features across the farm, based on

awarding points. HLS will provide payments for

management and creation of additional wildlife

habitats.

There are a number of organisations offering land

management advice to farmers to help them with

applications for agri-environment grants, and to

advise on minor changes to management, which

would benefit biodiversity. These include the


(HIWWT), the Farming and Wildlife Advisory

Group (FWAG) and the Game Conservancy Trust

(GCT). For contact details please refer to Section

2.4.

Hart District Local Plan has policies on the

protection of priority species outside of designated

sites. There is a need for comprehensive surveys

before permission is granted for any development.

Where sites are identified that are of high value

for biodiversity, they should be considered for

designation as SINC.

The Hedgerow Regulations 1997 require a license

to be sought from the local authority before

removal of a hedge. This has been successful in

protecting over 80% of England’s hedges.

However, the regulations do not require the

maintenance of locally important or species rich

hedgerows. The regulations are being updated and

will be in place by 2005.

DEFRA have produced a Hedgerow Survey

Handbook to assess the status of the hedgerow

network. CPRE in partnership with Hampshire

Wildlife Trust are piloting a survey in 2004, which

will extend to cover more of Hampshire in 2005.

Many local groups are also receiving training in

this survey technique to produce reports on the

status of the hedgerows in their parish.

The Forest of Eversley Project aims to promote

the value of the historical landscapes within the

north east of Hampshire. The project includes

guided walks and talks, liaison with landowners

and the local authorities and local surveys, to

assess the status of priority species.

Species recording and monitoring is on-going to

monitor population trends. The British Trust for

Ornithology (BTO) and Hampshire Ornithological

Society (HOS) are involved in long-term

monitoring of farmland bird populations.



Neutral Grassland

Hedgerows

Arable


Yellow hammer

Pipistrelle bat

Grey partridge

Brown hare

Harvest mouse


Buzzard

Badger

Marbled White

LEAD PARTNERS

CPRE Council for the Protection of Rural England



GCT Game Conservancy Trust






HF Hook Focus







PROPOSED ACTIONS

T1:A1: Identify old field hedge boundaries in

urban areas. (HPC, HPR, HWT, CPRE) ST

T1:A2: Identify all species rich hedgerows and

species, utilising hedgerows in Hook Parish and

take steps to maintain them. (HWT, HPC, HPR,

HARG, WVPS, CPRE) ST

T2:A3: Provide advice on the management of

hedgerows to maintain and enhance biodiversity.

(HWT, CPRE, FWAG, FEP) MT

• Protect hedges from spray drift

• Do not cut road verges and grass margins in one

go and manage on rotation

• Cut hedges every other year to allow woody

shrubs to fruit

• Cut hedges in rotation so that there is always

food and cover for wildlife

• Manage hedges between November and February

• Fence hedgerows from livestock

• Retain trees and deadwood within the hedge

• When planting new hedges, use a variety of

native species, from local sources

• Set up a local hedgerow survey group

T3:A4: Conduct a survey to assess the value of the

airfield grasslands. Consider designation if it meets

SINC criteria. Offer management advice and

information of grant schemes to enhance

biodiversity. (HBIC, FEP, HCC) ST

T3:A5: Monitor the status of priority species and

SINC process by undertaking a rolling programme

of survey. (HBIC) LT

T3:A6: Achieve a continuous block of habitat for

biodiversity from Hook Common, along the north

of the M3 and up the River Whitewater. (HWT,

FWAG, GCT, FEP) LT

T3:A7: Provide advice on agri-environment grant

schemes and management techniques to benefit

farmland biodiversity. Ensure that the valley sides

retain connectivity between core biodiversity

areas. (HWT, FWAG, GCT, FEP) MT

T4:A8: Publicise the importance of the farmland

biodiversity, in Hook Parish, in all available

media. Ensure that local plans take account of this

biodiversity and contain measures to protect and

enhance this resource. (FEP, FWAG, HDC, HF,

HPC, HPR, HBP, HWT) LT



a local biodiversity action plan for hook...

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